By R.C. JOSEPH, 24 HOURS
Growing up as children of the late '70s and early '80s, we were always made to feel guilty about our era's contributions (or lack there of) to the world of pop culture.
Thankfully, Vancouver indie princes Chariots of Eggs are on the scene to help us all earn back a little of that hard-to-come-by pop cred that our generation seems to lack.
First off, let's get one thing straight: We were just kids back then; we had no influence on anything. And we certainly weren't responsible for disco, cocaine's newfound popularity, or the exponential spreading of genital herpes. We were too busy riding Big Wheels and playing Atari to be doing the hustle all high and horny.
That said, what people also seem to forget about that era was that overshadowed by all that soulless negativity came contributions from some of the best artists ever - the Elvis Costellos, the Joe Jacksons, the Tom Pettys.
When I listen to Chariots of Eggs masterful self-titled debut, I can't help but be reminded of this music. Sure, there are hints of Joel Plaskett, Cake and even Spoon in the music of Chariots of Eggs, but at the heart of the brilliance lies the same formula: Good lyrics over two and half-minutes of stick-in-your-head, hooky goodness.
Taking their name from an obscure SCTV reference (yet another way in which Chariots of Eggs shed some light on overlooked artistic genius of the era), the trio of Matt Caruso, Eric Napier and Mike Kenney has been building a loyal underground following since 2006.
And with the proven songwriting magic of Caruso (who has also performed with The Beekeepers and Duplex!) Chariots of Eggs appear to be on their way to building a following above ground, as it were.
Besides cleverly bringing to light everything (and perhaps the only things) good about the late '70s and early '80s era, Chariots of Eggs prove that adhering to the tried and true formula of delivering smart, meaningful lyrics over well-crafted music outshines hot pants, fat lines and Valtrex prescriptions any day. And a whole generation is in their debt.
Chariots of Eggs perform this Friday at the Railway Club with guests Great Aunt Ida and Onward Voyageur.
Taking their name from an obscure SCTV reference, the trio of Matt Caruso, Eric Napier and Mike Kenney has been building a loyal underground following since 2006.
