2 Basses, a drummer and some delightful kazzoos..., 28 Feb 2004

The main thing that sets Toupe apart from any other band is the set up. Two bassists. One drummer. And that's it. You'll hear no other guitars at all, something I was sceptical about when I first heard of it. But you only have to listen to a few seconds of any track to see that it works so well. As bassists, they are exceptional. Some of the things these guys can pull off on a bass couldnt be done by most seasoned guitarists. In places you have to remind yourself what you're hearing is actually bass, as so often it is played with speed and clarity that you would not associate with a bass. The drums are also flawless, they serve their purpose well, and don't intrude on the sound of the basses. As a band they are of the tightest I've heard.

Now as for the tracks themselves, they offer so much and it is impossible to say enough in this review to do them justice. As can be expected, they are filled with powerful bass riffs ('Three Days in the Pit' has one of the best riffs I've ever heard'), and each song packs quite a punch. However, in spite of such a heavy sound, lyrically they also stand out. Lyrics in places can be bizarre and comical, which certainly works well with the sound, if not a little unusual. Song titles such as 'Gilly's Weapon Vs. Stoolers Wheel' (which features some killer rock kazzoo, yes, you heard), 'Puzzles for Monkeys' (which again demonstrates some great bass riffs and some superb funk undertones) and 'Wig' (which opens with chants of "Wig"... nice), they certainly dont know what you're getting yourself into. But once you get into it, it's hard to get it out of your head. And it's certainly not a bad thing.

So at the risk of waking up at 4am with a Toupe bass riff in your head, I'd say buy this album, it's well worth it's price. Toupe are funky, energetic, catchy and most importantly, fun. And it's certain to be a new experience for you, and one that you wont forget quickly either.

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