King Elementary

Kudzu (2005)

Jordan Rogowski

The Kudzu plant is one with a fair amount of history in American culture. First introduced from Japan at the Philadelphia Centennial Exposition of 1876, it was first thought to be used as a tool for farmers to reduce soil erosion, and for casual gardeners to use as an ornamental vine. What ended up taking place, however, was the realization that the vine grew at an absurd rate, killing off all plant life it encountered in a sprawling tangle of leaves and vines.

Well, with a lot of sprawling atmospheres, and tangled, disjointed post-punk rhythms, King Elementary show that you don't have to be of legal drinking age to make some extremely solid music. Amidst the layered atmospheres and howling vocals, there's some really driving rhythms and intricate arrangements to be found, and the rewards will come a plenty to those willing to really listen closely, and willing to listen repeatedly. That's not to say you won't get any enjoyment out of this album first time around, as that's definitely not the case, but the more you invest in the record the more you will take from it.

Jagged as the vocal delivery may be in points, it retains an extremely catchy quality to it that should have you singing along time and time again. Vocalist Morgan Jones exhibits the qualities usually found in seasoned musicians, adding his own unique and youthful flair. Never wavering, he remains the centerpiece of this rocking foursome, although guitarist Jeremy Upton makes some definite impact with his soulful style.

About halfway through the album closer, "Sitting," the vocals cut away for Upton to let loose with a very bluesy solo backed by a simple, but effective drum beat. He may not always get ample chance to shine as he does there, but his presence is never understated, and he's an integral element of the band's cohesive song structures. "Sitting" shows the slower, more atmospheric side of King Elementary, but the opener "For the Birds" is evidence of the fuzz-laden post-punk personality that shines so brightly. The vocals continue to ride that wave in the equally rollicking "Thief of Hearts," serving as a great testement to their diversity despite their age.

To achieve such a great sound this early in a band's career is at the very least impressive, and if they can stay on the track the future should hold a far more impressive fate than that of the stagnating Kudzu plant.