SCAMBOT 1

3.5 stars. "Scambot I" was released in 2009, the first of a proposed three part album series. Perhaps at the time, this was Mike's most ambitious album yet, and that's saying something. Recorded over 4 years, in different places, and different musicians, this is so Keneally. He is all about humour and variety. I think this is the first time I've seen Marco Minneman on a Keneally record, he's on six tracks but not upfront by any means like when he's with solo Steven Wilson. It is interesting to see him and Bryan Beller playing on "Hallmark" together, although Beller is playing acoustic bass unfortunately.

So 18 tracks over 67 minutes and what a surprise to see a long song like "Gita" at 12 minutes, as well as the 8 1/2 minute "We Are The Quiet Children". Keneally's guitar solo after 3 minutes on "Life's Too Small" reminded me of Zappa, as well as the song "Chee". And how hilarious is that one minute opener that sounds like an outtake from a cooking show, so funny. Again a lot of poppy and humerous songs with some excellent playing. That's what Mike Keneally is all about, and why he is so hit and miss in my world.