Urge
's first two albums were recorded at a time when their visions eclipsed their talents -- while there is a lot of good indie-guitar bluster here, there aren't that many memorable songs. With its flat
Steve Albini
production,
Jesus Urge Superstar
is the weaker of the records.
Americruiser
, with production courtesy of
Butch Vig
, not only has a fuller sound, but also some real songs.
"Ticket to L.A."
is a classic rocker, with a locomotive riff and great lyrics. It was a sign of things to come. (The CD also includes their gonzo cover of
Jimmy Webb
's "Wichita Lineman.") ~ Stephen Thomas Erlewine