The Cassettes – Neath the Pale Moon

‘Neath the Pale Moon ‘ The Cassettes

BY CHRIS PEKEN

As their name might suggest, The Cassettes inhabit a world that is somewhat out of step with the masses, and this is far from a bad thing. Fronted by Shelby Cinca, the son of Romanian refugees and featuring banjo, theremin, moog, saw and tables, The Cassettes earn their ‘vaudeville steam-punk’ band tag and display it proudly. ‘Neath the Pale Moon is unashamedly inspired by The Beatles’ White Album, and Rocky Raccoon and Honey Pie specifically. Moving on, The Cassettes have now evolved a line-up that draws on the classic rock of Badfinger and T-Rex as much as their previous experimental psychedellia. Be it the roots of Sweet Virginia, the hoe-down pop of Lady Faire or rollick of Rouge Gnome few tread so many paths with such adroitness (Anton Newman and The Brian Jonestown Massacre come to mind). It may take you a few listens to navigate your own way around ‘Neath the Pale Moon, but the journey becomes and increasingly enjoyable one as you familiarize yourself with the ever changing scenery.

*** ½