8x8 - Inflorescence (Sugarbush SB030), out now is 8x8's third album and only the second to be released on vinyl. This is pure genius: A magical blend of Beach Boys and Beatles inflected Pop tunes but in a very contemporary setting and by no means derivative or inferior at all to those great artists. Considering that this is a part time project and done on a very small budget with only two persons making the music you could, and I would, argue that this is a mini-masterpiece of modern Psychedelic Pop music. Track after track transports the listener to musical places long unvisited such is the majesty of this great record. Perhaps there is a hint of DIY to the recording process that manifests itself on the first play of the record, however any qualms (and I did not have any) are blown away in seconds as the lush quality of the playing and writing hits your ears. This is simply a record that will one day be revered and the sheer talent of its main protagonist, Lane Steinberg, will be nearly elevated to genius status. That is not to take anything away from Alex Khodchenko who plays guitar and also desibed the sleeve. The two musicians recorded this record over 6000 miles as one lives in New York and the other in Ukraine! A great work lovingly pieced together by two people who have never met in person but who obviously share a great musical affinity. Buy this record, it is amazing. £19.99 including worldwide postage.
