Work of Saws - The Pious Flats (2002)

In "The Pious Flats", the Work of Saws offer a strong collection of catchy, sparkling pop songs. If their 44 song debut CD "Motivation and Watertower Grammar" was a sprawling buffet of delectable lo-fi tunes, "Flats" is a refined, more sophisticated full course (16 song) meal. The enigmatic song titles and lyrics, the irresistable hooks, and lingering melodies are still there, but this time the sound is decidedly hi-fi. "Fierce, He Said" reminds me of David Lowery's songs with Camper Van Beethoven and Cracker. The chirping crickets between tracks six and seven, and the quirky chord changes are reminiscent of XTC. "Weapons", "I've Got Guns", and "The Weather is Herod's Arm" are pop masterpieces, pure and simple. Discover the talents of Brock Davis, David Salmela, and company and you'll quickly become a fan of one of the best and brightest (but little-known) independent bands in the United States.