Published in Vive Le Rock Magazine June/July 2013 issue
GRANT HART
THE ARGUMENT
(Domino Records)
Ex-Husker Du man creates a sophisticated double record.
6/10
Double albums are making a resurgence, but unfortunately not matching the quality they promise us time and time again. The underwhelming “Opposites” by Biffy Clyro is just one example and the even more tedious triple album extravaganza from Green Day last year, makes that point hard. Now former Husker Du sticksman Grant Hart is following this path, a risky decision for someone who may have seen better days. “The Argument”, his fourth studio album, finds Hart breaking his pattern of delivering one record per decade, thus making this his first in nearly four years. Inspired by his friendship with renowned author, William S. Burroughs, it’s fair to say the word “grower” will be applied to many long time fans due to the amount of subtle layers on offer in contrast to the fuzzy sounds of previous outfits. Indeed, it takes its time to get the foot off the pedal, precisely an album’s worth. A range of delicate tones and synths are predominant on this half, initially making for a frustrating listen. Then by track 11 “So Far From Heaven”, the guitars have a greater presence, positively making way for “Glorious” and “(It Was A) Most Disturbing Dream”. This is where he comes in touch with his college rock roots, using as much energy as his 52-year-old body will let him. It’s a confused effort, where he has clearly let his ambitions run too wild, but a little trimming down may have just made this a successful mission.
Tom Willmott
