08 Aug 2009 // A review by amandashootsbands
Originally created by Straightjacket Fits’ songwriter Shayne Carter, the Dimmer crew have made quite the name for themselves since forming in 1994. In their fifteen years of being they’ve released an outstanding collection of successful albums which has undoubtedly put the band up there with the likes of well respected kiwi icons, Shihad.

Returning from their live tour around the U.S and Australia in 2008, the group sat down to craft their latest release, Degrees Of Existence. I consider the album to be a turning point for the band, who set out to make a record with the same feel that they produce on stage. It’s not live and rough by any means but they have certainly captured that unique essence that is Dimmer.

Every touch of this album has been precisely planned out which is made obvious right from the moment you pick it up. Even the cover art has been carefully chosen to reflect the music. It’s dark and eerie and proves the amount of effort they have gone to, to make this album a real milestone in their career.

The first track titled Degrees Of Existence shows off exactly what the band is trying to convey with a magical touch that has that distinct New Zealand feel. If you can’t hear that then you’re an idiot, and I suggest you go back and listen again. While you’re doing that I want you to recognise the slight similarities between this track and the tunes produced by Auckland lads, The Tutts.

They’re not all like this mind you and the next song – Nowhere I Want makes sure of this. It’s got wicked drum beats to capture the imagination and makes me yearn to see them perform it live. Comfortable is beautiful and was the exact point in this album that convinced me I’m not just a listener, but a lover of their fine musical talents. Carter’s vocals are to die for. I’m in love.

Can’t Cut Through and Too Far Gone To Care are fresh and an easy listen while Dark Night Of Yourself is a little gloomy, with music reminding me a tiny bit of Massive Attack’s hit - Teardrop. Wrong Bus follows which provides a perfect transition through to Bless. It’s mostly instrumental with a few haunting sounds from front-man Shayne Carter towards the end.

Final track on this album, titled What Would I Do.. takes on a slow rhythm with soft vocals which will have you in an underground bar watching the group in an instant. People surrounding you swaying side to side perfectly in touch with the music... These guys have clearly put all of their efforts into producing their pieces for this effect and it has worked tremendously.

Amanda Ratcliffe

Dimmer was the name under which New Zealand musician Shayne P Carter (formerly of Straitjacket Fits, The DoubleHappys and Bored Games) recorded and played music from 1994. It began as an umbrella name for jam sessions and short-lived band line-ups, then home recordings, then an ensemble with various members and guests. This evolution led to more settled four-piece rock band (especially from 2006–10, when only the bassist changed). At least 41 musicians have been acknowledged as playing a part in Dimmer over 18 years, with Carter the only permanent fixture.

The last Dimmer recordings were made in 2009, with the band playing live shows through 2010. A short farewell tour announced the end of the band in 2012, and Carter began recording under his own name after that. Reformed and reformatted versions of Dimmer have occasionally played live shows, drawing on all four Dimmer albums, since 2018.

All four of Dimmer's albums were admired by critics, and all earned multiple New Zealand Music Award nominations. Non-album singles were released in 1995 and 1996, with debut album I Believe You Are A Star not following until 2001. In 2004 You've Got To Hear The Music was named New Zealand's Best Rock Album for the year, and Dimmer named Best Group. There My Dear saw Carter return to playing and recording with a live rock band in 2006, and return to the national album charts. Final album Degrees of Existence (2009) was recorded by the longest-lasting version of the band.

Visit the muzic.net.nz Profile for Dimmer

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