Whole Fantastic World - Chime!

The Whole Fantastic World is a little known indie rock band (for now) from Tennessee with a penchant for melody, harmony, and smart songs. That described about 9 million other bands, but the balance of rolling guitar, melodious bass, well-balanced drum play, and engaging keyboards is not so common. "We've Got the Books" is a prime example of the bands ability to keep you hooked with a simple lyrical repetition seemingly about a worried individual's over indulgence in a chateau lafitte `88. "Beets For Bombs" is probably the most easily accessible track while "Postcards From Out Of Town" has one of the greatest bridges I've heard in awhile. The beauty in this record is the balance between simplicity and complexity. The sometimes angular and intricate guitar lines are always counteracted upon by a melancholiness that keeps anything from spiraling out of control. Add to that the fact that the lead vocals contain a sincerity that never crosses the line into overt drama, and you've got a winning combination. Chime! might not seem to break much new ground on paper, but after listening to the integration of musical styles and Daniel Sherron's vocal quality, you'll understand why it's proven that the indie rock formula still has room for improvement. [www.thewholefantasticworld.com]