Self-titled albums tend to work either in an introductory fashion or make a definitive, fresh-start kind of statement. Though their discography is sparse, Jawbox is a highly influential band. Unfortunately, like the late, great Faith No More, their influence is lent to decidedly lesser bands. It's too bad that, to many rock music fans, this band is no bigger than a dark slab of stop-start rock majesty called "Savory."
It's a shame that For Your Own Special Sweetheart frequently steals the spotlight from Jawbox. While the greatness of that album is nothing to diminish, I think this one is infinitely better. The unifying tone is a semi-menacing moodiness that's more stoic than dreary. J. Robbins vocal delivery switches effortlessly from austere remove to soaring plead, while the supporting vocals of the band figure in more largely than on preceding material (perhaps most effectively on the compelling call and response of "His Only Trade" and "Empire of One"). This is one album I wish had received more publicity, because these songs really sell themselves. So I guess this is my little plea for rock fans that've missed out on this gem to wise up. It's a masterpiece of driving, angular rock prowess that hasn't been topped since it was released.
Producer John Agnello had a good year in 1996. He oversaw two of the most jaw-dropping rock records of the 90s (the other being Chavez's Ride The Fader). I suppose I like Ride The Fader a little more, since it covers greater sonic territory, but they both have an authoritative, inventive harmonic thrust to them that is sorely lacking on the releases of a great deal of their peers. I'm happy to say 8 years later, Jawbox hasn't lost any of its initial impact. This is an impossibly solid CD that I cannot recommend enough. It's even got a hidden Tory Amos cover ("Cornflake Girl") that works better than you might think.
1. Mirrorful
2. Livid
3. Iodine
4. His Only Trade
5. Chinese Fork Tie
6. Won't Come Off
7. Excandescent
8. Spoiler
9. Desert Sea
10. Empire of One
11. Mule/Stall
12. Nickel Nickel Millionaire
13. Capillary Life
14. Absenter