Pontiak – Maker (Thrill Jockey)

Virginia’s PONTIAK could slot comfortably on the shelf next to envelope-pushing stoner rock bands like the ATOMIC BITCHWAX or PEARLS AND BRASS. But to call the sibling trio a stoner rock band is selling them a bit short. There’s an equal influence of fellow brothers-ruled band the MEAT PUPPETS – the same angular, acid-fried dynamics often insinuate themselves into songs like “Laywayed.” Plus there are excursions into pure noise, such as “Heat Pleasure.” But there’s still plenty of warm melody and/or rock power on display, a la “Aestival” and “Wild Knife Night Flight.” The jammed-out title track incorporates every element into its double-digit running time, rarely faltering in interest. There’s nothing earth-shattering on Maker, but while its pleasures may be somewhat modest, they’re also consistent.

http://www.pontiak.net
http://www.thrilljockey.com