Cathedral Ceilings
La La La, Whatever
Dromedary Records
Some things just never change. The demand for loud, snotty rock and roll never dies, and a fresh crop of rockers is always waiting to take their place in the Pantheon of Loud. Cathedral Ceilings is a great example.
La La La, Whatever opens with a blast of drums and guitar and distortion. Now that the band has our attention, it’s on to clear, clever lyrics like “I love my CEO” on “My CEO.” The sonic steamroller continues with “No Ceremony.” The backdrop is loud and sharp, lyrics are clear, if enigmatic. A breather appears with “All You Cowards.” Here we explore themes like insecurity and “terrified young simpletons,” all of which summarize the adolescent inertia we sometimes felt when younger. But, on we go, surfing the airwaves where the sonic wave rolls on. Next we hear “Nevermind the Helicopters.” Patriotism might appear cool, but it’s a fool’s death. Mercy might be available from a supreme deity, but not from one with little care for the little people. I sense the Vietnam era fear of death for no good reason. Now the drumming slows to a stop, however briefly.
Are we returning to that rough-shod era? Thankfully not quite yet, although one never knows where the next crisis will erupt. It might just be down the street instead of a world away. Just like the music, it’s a loud mix with clean vocals and socially conscious lyrics.
Can Rock and Roll end war and stuff? You won’t know until you drop your quarter in the jukebox and press the play button. And thank you for your service. Can I get you a beer?
