Versus - "On the Ones and Threes"
It might as well be a punishable crime in today's independent music scene for an artist to write and release a straightforward, approachable rock record. Fans of Versus know this is something the Baluyut brothers and Fontaine Toups could near-flawlessly achieve during their hey day in the ‘90s. In staunch contrast to much of today's 80s infused, over-hyped electro-pop hullabaloo, Versus may come off as being somewhat bland, generic, and - strike me down for even saying it - too normal. However, in the same way a clean-shaven face and tattoo-less body may ironically become the new "rebellious", a rekindled appreciation of form and melody may prove a band like Versus more relevant than anyone could of imagined. Or maybe I am just getting too old. Probably all the above is true, especially since music’s essence is highly personal and subjective anyway. That said, I can just hear the droves of modern hipsters proclaiming "Gaawwd, this is so ‘90s".
After a decade-long hiatus, Versus returns to us with On the Ones and Threes, void of the characteristic "reunion" overtones many would expect after years of inactivity. Rather, it establishes itself poignantly as a worthy addition to the Versus repertoire. Whether you miss or missed-out on Versus in the ‘90s, On the Ones and Threes is a welcome collection of superbly crafted melodies rendered in the band’s trademark sandpapery jangle, with lyrics dolefully steeped in saturnine emotion . I didn't realize how much I missed this band. You know what they say about absence making the heart grow fonder.
Sonically resting somewhere between The Stars Are Insane and Secret Swingers, the band's latest offering gifts us with hooks galore; although production-wise not quite as polished as the silvery ‘Atomic Kid’ or endearing ‘Spastic Reaction’ (Two Cents Plus Tax). Once again, Versus brilliantly renders a nearly-extinct brand of pop flirtation with cliché free results that are revealing and personal. On the Ones and Threes contains several gems such as ‘Nu Skin‘, ‘Gone To Earth’, and ‘Cicada’. In addition, Fontaine's breathy vocals are flawless on this record, demonstrated on tracks like ‘Into Blue’, ‘Erstwhile’, and ’Pink Valhalla’.
The more music becomes overtly and unnecessarily complex, the more satisfying it is hearing a band like Versus crank out their trademark indie rock. What can I say? I am still a sucker for a well-crafted song with a hook. Simply put, their song writing talent is undeniable. After many years these '90s stalwarts still amaze me with hook after hook; topped with whipped cream harmonies. This is a special disc from a very special band. Welcome back Versus and I hope you stick around for a while.
Definitely worth noting that the deluxe edition double LP format features alternate sequencing and two additional tracks (‘Death Ray’ and ‘Neither Nor’) from the album’s recording sessions. Also, this release has some beautiful original artwork designed by illustrator Tae Won Yu and Teen Beat’s Mark Robinson. Go get it!!
