can anyone really get a bead on the Test Icicles?while doing a little research trying to write this review, i managed to learn that all within the span of two years, the Test Icicles came together, impressed people at shows, generated buzz, got caught in a bidding war for their services, signed with an indie, released one record, broke up and now have scheduled shows in the UK for April.
you don't know if they are coming or going.
but it's this sort of crazy feeling that underlies the entirety of For Screening Purposes Only, the Test Icicles debut (and final?) record.
From the opening track "Your Biggest Mistake" i thought i might be listening to a new Slint record, only to have further listening send you in another direction. "Catch It!" has a chaotic metal opening into an almost chant-like chorus with a driving drum machine beat. "Circle Square Triangle" sounds like a strange amalgamation of glam rock and dance music. and yet, somehow the record manages to stay focused and blends together quite well. in fact, it comes together so well that aside from one small miscue (a lame hidden track--one of the annoying parlor tricks of bands now that everything is on CD) it may as well be for the best that the Test Icicles have called it quits, because it's unlikely they'll be able to duplicate the energy and fervor that this record so obviously possesses. Grade: A- (deducted from an A for the lame hidden track--either you want it on the record or you don't. i don't need surprises.)
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