The Deal: Charlotte trio releases sophomore album, is/was.
The Good: Bullship takes a stripped down approach on their latest, 11-track CD. Usually working a guitar/drums/bass indie rock method, the band also finds a fuller sound on “You Are a Song” thanks to the saxophone of Michael Anderson. They sound most comfortable on tracks like “Garrison” and “She’s All Around” – falsetto vocals, easy riffs and beats. Back-to-back instrumentals “Magnificent” and “New Instrumental” could be from two different bands, showing the trio’s diversity in songwriting.
The Bad: At first glance, I wasn’t impressed, but the more I listen to it, the more it’s grown on me and won me over with its simplicity.
The Verdict: With Bullship’s unique style, even the rough moments keep your attention. It doesn’t have to be groundbreaking to be enjoyable.
This article appears in Mar 12-18, 2008.
