TROUBLED HUBBLE

Penturbia is the fourth release from Troubled Hubble, which is a band that, until now, I had never heard of. A quick glance at previous press releases made my skin crawl with references to "Phish-style jam band" and "hippie-infected" stylings. Thankfully, the person who wrote that is a misguided ass. As soon as I started playing the record I thought, "Cool. This album sounds like Built To Spill!" And as the record progressed I could hear a possible vocal influence from They Might Be Giants. Troubled Hubble definitely has that light-hearted sound that reflects the two bands I've already mentioned, but also can be compared to such indie rock stars as The Promise Ring (the earlier records, anyway) and maybe even a little bit of Modest Mouse. Musically well-written, the songs seem to wander through vivid emotions with amazing guitar work by Chris Otepka (vocals, as well) and Josh Miller. Brothers Andrew Lanthrum (bass) and Nate Lanthrum (drums) round out the band with rhythm that takes slower songs through up-tempo fits of energy. Perhaps the only song on this release that I could do without is "I Love My Canoe". This track was probably the one responsible for getting Troubled Hubble tagged with having a "hippie-infected" sound. Let me be redundant, but crystal clear, that this band is much more of a Built To Spill variety than a Phish-style band. In all truth, I had, at first, every intention of taking my free, press copy of Penturbia straight to the used record store after I reviewed it. But after hearing the record, there is no way I can do that. I have actually come across quite a jewel in the otherwise pile of horseshit that I usually have to review. I can honestly say that I look forward to the day when Troubled Hubble finds its way to my local stage. Their album is scheduled for release in March of this year, so you all have to wait a little while longer to enjoy this band. Until then, you can check out their website for touring info and past releases. Check ‘em out at TROUBLEDHUBBLE.COM.