When Pigs Fly was released in 1999 by Boston's raucous, smart pop band
the Irresponsibles. The Irresponsibles won Musician Magazine's Best Unsigned Band in the Country Competition at the end of 1996, which gained them the attention of well-known musician and producer
Adrian Belew. Belew, who had been one of the contest's judges, was so impressed with the band that he offered to produce them at his studio in Nashville. This work first resulted in a six-song EP called Backwards Boy in 1997. Six additional songs were later produced and added to the original six to create
When Pigs Fly. The album was released on Belew's own Adrian Belew Presents label. It is not hard to see why Belew, known for his unique and intelligent pop/rock sensibilities, would be enthusiastic about a band like
the Irresponsibles. Fronted by lead singer, songwriter, and guitarist Peter Montgomery, the band's smart, funny lyrics and infectious melodic hooks are a breath of fresh air in a world where the words "pop hook" are frequently applied so undeservingly, as to render them almost meaningless. Belew lends his distinct but subtle production skills to the tight interplay of guitar, bass, and drum instrumentation, sometimes accented by strings and keyboard. Montgomery's voice is capable of rocking a song and suggesting wry humor at the same time. The production has flavors of Belew's work, and other influences such as
XTC, but makes its own distinct sound. The plot lines of the songs range from stinging self-deprecation in the wake of romantic rejection ("Favorite Girl" and "Holy Cow") to a hilarious story of insanity in the hard-rocking "Tales of an Unfortunate Psycho." "Over You," a breakout pop tune, shows phenomenal wit and finesse, down to the clever echo of the old military march "Over There" in its hook. "A Girl to Looze" is irresistible and, at one minute and 45 seconds, seems too good to be so brief, but two listens through will generally quench anyone's pop "jones." Other standouts include the angular but sincere "Mr. Belew," a co-write by Montgomery and drummer Dan Rudack in homage to the group's benefactor. For pop song fans, this album is a genuine find in a world with too many pretenders to the art. ~ Susan Bachner