Critics Raving About New Mars' Album
Posted: Tue Apr 25, 2006 11:24 am

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From Press Release:

Live From Hempfields - out now on Perfectlife Records and available from Real Groovy stores or online from amplifier.co.nz

The long-awaited Mars' album Live From Hempfields has got the critics raving. The latest issue of Rip It Up awarded it four stars, describing the eleven-track disc as "absolutely stunning"; while NZ Musician has been equally enthusiastic, telling its readers to "listen and love it".

Created over a period of three years and finally available for mass consumption, Hempfields is a timeless and eclectic mix of pop-inflected rock. Recorded in Christchurch, one can hear in Mars' music the same influences that have inspired other South Island bands down the years: it's all about textures. No pointless strumming here, this is a delicately arranged collection of songs with outstanding use of vocal harmonies and interweaving instrumental parts. Each song abounds with countermelodies, creating a rich series of layers which support sincere lyrics about life and love.

This is most evident in I Love You featuring cello and violins against an intricate vocal and guitar arrangement. Opening track On The Way rocks out in a way that recalls mid-period Chills; overdriven guitars with classic pop sensibility. On other tracks, in particular the two radio hits How 'Bout You? and Wonderful, singer Stephen McIntyre's warm voice is accompanied by glacier-clean guitars.

This is classic pop music that can hold its own with the very best. In an age where so many albums sound like a one-course meal, Live From Hempfields appears as a veritable feast. Wait no longer and dig in!

Mars playing at Edens Bar on Friday Night , NOV 25th
Posted: Wed Nov 23, 2005 12:31 am

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