Thoughts OnThe Veils: Nux Vomica

The Veils are basically a vehicle for New Zealander Finn Andrew's songwriting. On 2004's "The Runaway Found", he distinguished himself in a crowded post-Buckley field with a clear knack for hooks and passionate vocal performances. Songs like "The Wild Son" and "The Tide That Left and Never Came Back" were compelling and radio-ready at the same time. When an American tour and greater fame beckoned, Finn did what any self-respecting indie rocker would do: he promptly sabotaged the whole thing. Sacking the rest of the Veils members, he headed out on an acoustic tour. With the exception of a notable performance for KEXP, the promotional rounds would end with a whimper, not a bang.

"Nux Vomica", released last year in Europe, represents our first taste of the 'new-and-improved' Veils. Apparently tired of being shoehorned into a more traditional indie guitar format, Andrews has brought in keyboards to pick up the melodic lines and the stunning Sophia Burn to give the songs a sweet harmonic touch. "Advice for Young Mothers to Be", the first single, is unabashedly poppy: tinkling piano lines and shuffling percussion set the stage for a cautionary tale worthy of another obvious influence, Morrissey. Is it more focused than the "Runaway Found" material? Undoubtedly. Is it demonstrably better? No, not quite.

Listen to "Advice for Young Mothers to Be":

[Download the MP3 Here]

Similarly, "Calliope" is an 80's alternative hit, albeit twenty years late. "One Night on Earth", meanwhile, is probably the greatest argument for the new instrumentation. Brimming with the confidence of the best "Runaway" tracks, its strings and harmonies provide the added complexity and subtlety that Finn was probably looking for when he revamped the lineup.

Elsewhere, Andrews puts his distinctive warble to good use. While it's very likely a love/hate proposition for many listeners, this reviewer finds that he's usually careful not to overdo it. Yes, he often errs on the side of melodrama, but somehow it fits these songs. There is still a noticeable Buckley influence here, but one that's more "Sketches" than "Grace". Tracks like "Jesus for the Jugular" and the title track have a dark, bluesy feel reminiscent of Buckley's "The Sky Is A Landfill" or "Nightmares By The Sea" before them.

"Not Yet" acoustic:

"Nux Vomica" only goes to solidify Finn Andrews' place as an emerging talent. The LA studio sheen and overall catchiness of this material mean that wider mainstream attention may not be far away. I implore the band's indie fans not to worry, however: there's probably an implosion just around the corner.

Rating: 7 out of 10