Kick Ptarmigan Trihornasaurus

Published Sep 27, 2011

"We're the tofu of bands!" Yes, Parry Sound's Kick Ptarmigan are indeed the tofu of bands. However, it's not because they're adaptable, but because they're bland. Every single track onhas the same droning guitar, shy drums and wispy vocal delivery, while the lyrics are just bizarre. The second track, "Dialtone," uses the concept of a dial tone as a metaphor for a relationship, but it doesn't quite fit. "Launchpad McQuack" opens with an order to crank your headphones, but I'm fine with the droning at this volume, thank you. I can't help but especially loathe "The Girl in the Band." Vocalist Martin Jenkens sings that the girl in the group is unattainable and that "she's forgotten her lines, but that's alright." The girl doesn't sound unattainable, she sounds awful and unprofessional. Aside from these criticisms, there are pretty moments, such as "Fathoms." Also, Kick Ptarmigan have a certain Tragically Hip-ness that makes them sound almost endearing, in a nostalgic, Canadiana sort of way. (Silent P)