For those of you too young to remember Stevie and Lindsey (or Exene and John, Grace and Marty…), let us introduce you to the amazing Aurore Ounjian and Chris Keene -guitarists and singers from Mean Creek - one of Boston's hottest indie bands. The torrid twosome exist in a world filled with rumors (pun intended), romantic angst, pathos, and yearning - all elements which make for great rock 'n' roll. Following in the tradition of their hometown's finest college alt-rock ancestors (think Pixies, Lemon Heads, Blake Babies, Throwing Muses), the Creek turn their guitars up real, real loud to compliment their tales of woe. Keene's wistful (Thom Yorke by way of Art Garfunkel?) delivery and Ounjian's tough harmonies make the songs work, even though the story lines may be a bit blurred. Among catchiest offerings here are "Radio Drought" and "The Patient" replete with power chords, dramatic interludes, snazzy guitar riffs, and big choruses worthy of an arena rock show. The rhythm section of bassist Erik Wormwood and drummer Mikey Holland swing the fences and never miss. The heart-tugging yin and yang of "Beg and Plead," the folksy "It's Good To Be Back Again" show the Creek ain't no one trick pony. A mighty fine debut…
--Tom Semioli [October 5, 2009]
