West Indian Girl- We Believe Album Review

"Its about finding the best thing in life, be it a wave or a state of mind or a perfect escape," co-founding bassist Francis Ten says.

It has been a summer of highs & lows for LA sextet West Indian Girl. On the heels of their well-received sophomore album 4th & Wall comes the sad news that their female lead singer has departed from the band due to recent life & priority changes. One of said changes may be Mariqueens recent engagement to Trent Reznor, but who are we to speculate?

As posted on their blog, the show must go on and thus West Indian Girl has a full line-up of shows this summer that will be played without interruption including a top-billed performance at Street Scene here in sunny San Diego. According to their blog, they are looking for an immediate replacement for their dearly departed lead singer, so any interested females should contact: info@westindiangirl.com

On a more musical note, West Indian Girls new CD is excellent and absorbing. They have a vintage, acid tinged-feel that combines international and So Cal charms.

The first few songs, To Die in LA, Blue Wave, and Sofia all sound a bit similar, with jangly instruments and trippy, out of this world sound effects over male vocals. The Indian Ocean brings a bit more depth to the album, with sentimental lyrics such as this is our last chance to make it rain over sentimental chords.

Lost Children comes roaring in with a disco beat reminiscent of Jamiroqui, and the album continues to build & surprise from there. Get Up & Rise from the Dead feature howling, classic rock style vocals & harder guitar chords to close things out on a haunting note.

Line up changes or not, West Indian Girl is a band to watch and I for one will be front row & dancing at their upcoming Street Scene debut. We Believe is an excellent album and a must have for any WIG fans out there, a collection of rarity, remixes and b-sides from over the years. Released by indie label, Origami Records (also an excellent vinyl store), We Believe is sure to relax your soul when the day turns to night. You can find out more about the band and their current comings and goings at http://www.westindiangirl.com, and check out Origami Records at http://www.origamiorigami.com.