Though
David Baker's production inevitably leads to
Mercury Rev comparisons, on
Musings,
Comet isn't quite so wild and wired as that band in its early days. Instead, there's a post-psychedelic wistfulness that tends to suggest instead groups like
the Flaming Lips or, at least in the vocals,
Built to Spill. The Stones' sweet singing bears this out, high but clear, while the band merrily crunches away. There are definite hints of overdriven shoegaze drone being part of
Comet's formative years, as well -- "Rocket Flare," the opening track, has some great work in this regard, showing
Jim Stone isn't simply a fine singer. Songs stretch with extended introductions and endings, all while not seeming indulgent or time-wasting -- a nice thing in and of itself. Consider "Soundtrack to the Short Film: 'Lifelines'" as an example. Over a simple, gentle blend of distant electric guitar and piano,
Stone sings softly, before adding some acoustic guitar to the mix. It's a marvelous start, and could almost make a perfect song on its own, while the eventual addition of the rest of the band -- including some wonderful guitar work -- makes a good thing even better. Another reason
Musings is such a fine listen is that the band shows enviable ambition -- rather than using a full debut album to show how kick-ass they are (if you will), they have no problem bringing in strings and orchestration for self-written arrangements.
Baker happily helps out on the production end, balancing out band and accompanying players excellently. "Day at the Races" is a particular winner, its series of gentle crescendos by both guitar and strings creating a lovely atmosphere. Another standout is "Formula One Driver Blues," where gentle woodwinds alternate with massive, melancholy feedback riffs and heartbreaking chiming.