Reality and Optimism Both Optional

This New York experimental indie-rock band seems intent on mangling what is usually considered pleasant and aurally attractive. And it’s glorious.

Kiss Kiss’ debut album, Reality vs. the Optimist, is filled with rapid, screeching violins and falsetto shrieks through almost every track. Released back in 2007 through Eyeball Records, where My Chemical Romance first got their start, this CD is well-balanced, fresh, and constantly interesting. From the fast-paced “Shits in Suits (Dress Up)” featuring a chainsaw, to the soft closing number “Stay the Day”, Kiss Kiss knows how to mix things up.

Rebecca Schlappich’s violin sounds like a life-or-death battle between instrument and musician, creating a fascinating accompaniment to complement Josh Benash’s eerie, sometimes-gentle-sometimes-harsh voice. The rhythm is relentless on some tracks, but the albums intro slowly eases into it and then knows when to let up and give the listener a break.

Balanced by brief instrumental interludes, almost every song on this album is worthy of countless listens. Reality vs. the Optimist is something that may not be quite to everyones taste, but for those who enjoy it, they can

Look forward to Kiss Kiss’ next album, The Meek Shall Inherit What’s Left, due out in February 2009.

4.5 / 5