Grotty, you hit the nail on the head there. I have been listening to Antics and TOTBL back to back, and I am liking Antics more. You're right, it's not as immediate. But there are more undercurrents, more of a chemistry happening...a tension that carries the songs and adds weight. It's almost a little bit of an unsettling record because there is a darkness to it, but at the same time the music is very rewarding. I remember I got this feeling when I heard the Red House Painters rollercoaster LP. This is music that is made by people who really treasure what they do. They understand the whole point of why you make records...everyone I have talked to has agreed that there is something very special about Antics. It reminds me of a relationship that starts off very strange...you don't know what role the person will play in your life, but you want to explore that and the more you do, the more it intrigues you. I have a strong feeling this will be my favorite thing released this year.
