Tadpoles' modern psychedelia is hard-driving and intense, swirling and visceral. Since the release of the first
Tadpoles album, He Fell From the Sky, and its aptly titled follow-up
Far Out, the band has developed its own distinctive sound and style. While much of the haze surrounding the production of He Fell lifted on
Far Out,
Smoke Ghost further refines the band's sound.
Tadpoles' evolution manifests itself in clearer production with more textural variety in the arrangements and the vocals more up front than on previous efforts. Todd Parker and Nick Kramer also have honed their songwriting. Highlights include the brooding slow-burner "Sense," and the unofficial title track "Firecracker," and "Breaking," a re-recording of a track from
Tadpoles' 1992 demo tape. ~ Jim Powers