Considering that
Scrapomatic had been in existence for 14 years as of 2012, the fact that
I'm a Stranger is only the collective's fourth album is surprising. However, it says less about founding members
Mike Mattison and guitarist Paul Olsen not taking the group seriously, than how busy they've been on other projects.
Mattison in particular had a pretty grueling schedule as singer for
Derek Trucks' various bands. Regardless, their previous albums have been rootsy, diverse explorations of gospel, rock, punk, funk, and country stitched together with a strong blues thread. This one is no different except that the duo adds a third official member, guitarist Dave Yoke, who helps them run through a dozen eclectic originals that traverse territory from the swampy, straight blues shuffle of the opening "Alligator Love Cry" to the twisted music hall
Tom Waits-styled waltz (with horns) of "How Unfortunate for Me." The group is at their best when letting their oddest impulses shine, as when
Mattison goes falsetto on the unusual and ominous blues stomp "Crime Fighter." They shift to easygoing country-pop on "Don't Fall Apart On Me Baby" and turn into rollicking garage rockers on "The Mother of My Wolf." As you can tell from the titles,
Mattison and Olsen revel in bizarre lyrical twists that add vinegar to these songs. Even though printed words are included, they don't make a lot of sense, at least on the surface. But that enhances the mystique and a sense that there is more here than meets the ears. The band is also effective when they open up and rock as on "Rat Trap," but it's
Mattison's natural, soulful growl that will keep you coming back for additional helpings. The title track is the most commercial entry, with a singalong chorus you'll be humming after the first spin, and showing that when pressed, these guys can swim in the mainstream. Thankfully, though, they prefer to hover on the edge, making this another terrific addition to a small but quality catalog of offbeat roots music that never panders to its audience or takes it for granted. ~ Hal Horowitz