Most notable for being the band
Neko Case was in just before she launched her highly successful solo career,
Maow plays a mix of punk, pop, and country. Hardcore
Neko Case fans should be warned --
Neko does not handle all the vocals here (though bandmates Tobey Black and C.C. Hammond are very capable) and
The Unforgiving Sounds of... is rough, at times amateurish, and not as instantly memorable as
Neko's solo releases. The band does manage a few memorable moments, however, including the
Eric Clapton-bashing (and
Hank Williams-praising) "Very Missionary." Other fine tracks include "Wank," "Rock 'N' Roll Boy," and "How Does That Grab You." However, clocking in at less than 21 minutes,
The Unforgiving Sounds of... is likely to appeal chiefly to
Neko Case completists. ~ Robert Kaups