One of the most surprisingly overlooked '90s modern rock artists,
Blinker the Star's
Jordon Zadorozny intended these home recordings to be nothing more than a demo, but when A&M Records signed the young songwriter, all parties agreed: any attempts to improve the precious tracks would be a waste. So, in 1995
Blinker the Star was shipped on A&M's Treat and Release imprint and critics have been raving about Zadorozny ever since. More sparse than the grungy, introspective pop of later recordings, this eponymous debut has an individual quality that fans of
Bourgeois Kitten and
August Everywhere may very well appreciate. A strong Seattle influence can be heard during sections of "J-Bird (Part 2)," "Patch," and "Nectarina," but no blatant
Pearl Jam or Nirvana echoes scar this disc with dated dynamics or obvious lyrical rip-offs. "Song for Giggletrigger" has strong competition but is perhaps the record's best track, with its
Beatles-like arrangement and spooky pop melodies. Other highlights include "Hunting at the Zoo," with its quirky vocals, and the off-kilter balladry of "Nary Aloha." Like each Zadorozny recording,
Blinker the Star has a texture all it's own, and the markings of an expressive, accomplished artist throughout. ~ Vincent Jeffries