Editorial Reviews Music Review:
Music Review
Mattia Battistini, Volume II: Il Re Baritoni
Music: Manifold News 5 [Import]
Martinu: Works for Violins and Orchestra
Amazon.com
This is one of the greatest statements of the early days of American punk rock. Boston-based Mission of Burma created an intense, somewhat claustrophobic sound that was based neither on speed nor brevity. They bash and flail on their instruments, and the music is dense (including early tape manipulations), but the songs are intelligent and captivating. "Secrets" unfolds into directed chaos with an anthemic feel; "Trem Two" also has a great sense of dynamics. Several band members contribute songs, which also keeps the album engaging. Released in 1982 but still fresh. --Robert Gordon