242. Sonic Youth - a thousand leaves

242.SYathousandleaves,
originally uploaded by jrd550.

A deeply layered and discrete record that proves to be very rewarding if you are patient. The vocals take a back seat and play along to what the instruments have to say - when Kim tries to take the lead vocally, the mix is off putting, with your finger inching towards the skip button - but Moore and Ranaldo’s playing holds it all together, always adding enough brilliance to make you stay. Like a difficult read, it's worth it when you're done.

8 out of 10