MARK OF THE MOLE

My absolute favourite album by The Residents, and probably the one most deserving of inclusion on Progarchives too.

As much as I enjoy The Residents' simple, goofy, short, weird little songs that sound like a soundtrack of hell, Mark of the Mole is all about long, multi-layered compositions with not only top-notch musical creativity, but also heaps of engaging storytelling. From masterful use of synthesizers and sound effects, though simple guitar/bass motives, repetitive drum loops, all the way though a hefty variety of vocals and spoken word, the record keeps me locked in a haunting, surreal world of Moles and Chubs, struggling to co-exist, after a flood expells the former from their homeland. Not necessearly "rock", but no doubt as "progressive" as music can get (or at least as it could've in the 80's anyway).

I'd give it 6 stars if I could. You might not enjoy it nearly as much as I do, but please give it a chance. And if you do find yourself loving the record, check out The Tunes of Two Cities and The Mole Show: Live at Holland, for the ultimate Moles vs Chubs experience.

In my eyes, this is the greatest Residents record, and it will most likely stay that way until I die.

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