Controlling the Famous
Automatic City (2006)
Brian Shultz
I'm pleased as anyone to see The Militia Group step outside their box to release the debut full-length (following a stunning number of 4 straight EPs dating back to 2002) from Los Angeles, CA's Controlling the Famous, a band who simply seems to tilt their heads northern for influence but regardless has put together a compelling slab of digestable indie rock with Automatic City, a definite changeup from a label known usually for catering to the emo/pop-punk crowds.
Within the first few seconds of opener "Detox" you should have somewhat of an idea of what you're in for, as it's a riff that sounds exactly like a faster version of the one from mewithoutYou's "Disaster Tourism." Or more directly, Fugazi's "Waiting Room." Regardless, it's that type of post-hardcore / indie rock line flirtation the album dances upon for the most of its duration, usually coming off something like a heavier but equally groove-oriented Minus the Bear ("Pyromaniac"'s popping bass-lines, lightly bouncing octaves and distorted fertilizing would prove this best).
Like said, it's not all jagged aggression and temper tantrums -- none at all, really. CTF take more solemn, reflective and somber moods in mid-tempo affairs, like "Highway Parking Lot," which in particular seems to establish the same type of dreamy scenery MTB convey so well at times while still offering a shoulder-swaying, catchy song. And that's really what makes Automatic City work so well: A number of jumpy, mildly energetic songs that manage to retain a sing-along quality to them.
Automatic City might be a little more straightforward than what I was expecting, and while comparisons can get a bit obvious, Controlling the Famous have harnessed their creative energies into a complete album definitely worth a few listens.