Since its formation,
the Minus 5
has been a supergroup of sorts, led by
Scott McCaughey
(
Young Fresh Fellows
/
R.E.M
. sideman) and
Peter Buck
R.E.M.
). As the title would suggest, they are joined this time around by all four members of
Wilco
, the group responsible for the most talked-about recording of both 2001 and 2002 (
Yankee Hotel Foxtrot
).
Down with Wilco
was to be released by a major label until it suffered the same fate as
YHF
, when it was suddenly shelved. Like that album, it deserved better and was eventually emancipated by the indie
Yep Roc
in 2003. While
doesn't match the quality of
(a difficult task, as this is one of the best releases of the early 21st century), it's unsurprising that they both have similar sounds, via the use of synthesizers, various percussion effects, and horns. The record is tighter as well -- not as spatial as
.
is effectively transformed into
the Wrecking Crew
by
McCaughey
and
Buck
, both huge fans of
the Beach Boys
Brian Wilson
's technique of saturating the tape with music. In many ways, the disc updates
experimental
'60s
pop
, conjuring up
the Beatles
,
the Byrds
Syd Barrett
, as well as the aforementioned
Beach Boys
"That's Not the Way It's Done"
even emulates the synth-driven -- and often misunderstood --
1977 release
Love You
. And then there's
"The Old Plantation,"
which sounds tailor-made for early-'70s AM radio.
even draws upon old friend and colleague
Paul Westerberg
, romanticizing failure in
"Dear Employer"
"Days of Wine and Booze."
This collective has always represented the darker elements of
's personality, but the depression is kept in check here by
's solid and often upbeat backing, thus playing a major role in the most enjoyable
Minus 5
release yet. ~ Bart Bealmear