REGAINING THE FEEL

LAND OF CHOCOLATE was the project of John Buzby formerly of FINNEUS GUAGE and brother of Chris from ECHOLYN. He was a drummer with his former band but here he's on keyboards and the lead vocalist. They released two albums and the debut "Unikorn On The Cob" is the one to get in my opinion with the drummer from ECHOLYN on it and Brett Kull also from that band producing. That was a 2001 release and this record "Regaining The Feel" is from 2004 and all but John Buzby are left as he moved to a different state and recruited a new bass player, drummer and guitarist. Still this sure sounds a lot like the debut with Buzby's vocals dominating the sound for the most part. I feel like lately I've reviewed a few albums that were followups to much better albums that were in the same style.

Three tracks standout for me including the title track my third favourite. Nice start with the bass before the organ, drums and vocals join in bringing some ooomph. It's intricate and punchy as well. An impressive track for the multiple directions they go. "Mechanical Pencil" is my favourite. It sounds a little different from the rest and no vocals! The closer rounds out my top three as my second favourite tune on here. It's called "Ungrateful" and I hope to never be called that because I am so thankful. A quiet start as the bass throbs before drums and vocals join in along with synths. The vocals are laid back thankfully. It does kick in including the vocals before 2 minutes but all is good, really good.

Lots to like here and if your into FINNEUS GUAGE, ECHOLYN or HAPPY THE MAN you might just do a twirl when you here this. I didn't.