Dave Fischoff basks in sentimental storytelling and simple recording techniques on the eight-song
The Ox & the Rainbow. The disc opens with the operatic "A Nap at Truthtime, Some Magic Slips Away." With that opening track, it's easy to see why
Fischoff is so often compared to the likes of Cardinal,
Richard Davies, Alastair Galbraith, and
Chris Knox. That opener seamlessly gives way to "Blemish and a Bowl of Oranges," which includes steady guitar with church-bell-like arrangements. Throughout, the lyrics are poignant and poetic and the music is original and engaging, creating a whirlwind of intriguing musical moments. The sparseness of "We Break up and Watch the Angels Swim" is countered by the frenzied-yet-subdued pop of "Propaganda for a Comic Strip." Like the first track,
Fischoff's voice is the prime instrument on "The Science of Raindrops." The disc ends with the simple and atmospheric "Geranium." The disc is a strong leap forward from his debut, the super-quiet and reserved
Winston Park. The album was recorded in 2000 in Chicago and Bloomington, IN. Secretly Canadian Records released the disc in early 2001. ~ Stephen Cramer