The Canadian label Dainty Deathy launched its activities with the compilation CD Behind a Thatched Divider. It gathers tracks from Canadian (Lillico BUILT Instruments, Piedmont Sorpid, Les Hashishiens, and Bartoc), American the Scientifics), and British artists (the Balky Mule, Ramen, Chris Cole, and Nook). The whole thing is held together by eight short instrumental rock tunes by the Sinuses, described as a "mock band." They play very badly, but their simple riffs -- all ending after a few seconds with a loud "bang!" -- make a nice running joke. All these artists were confined to their bedrooms before submitting material for this CD and most tracks have lo-fi sound quality. Crescent members Chris Cole and Sam Jones (the latter under the moniker the Balky Mule) present strong alienated experimental pieces. Bartoc's track is also quite fascinating with its insistent Native American rhythmic motif and spoken voices. Lillico BUILT Instruments' three tracks are disappointing and the Scientifics' "My Bulldozer" brings nothing to the set. Some of these artists deserve a chance to release their own CDs someday and others should be forgotten, but for the experimental indie fan, Behind a Thatched Divider has musical and collectable value. It was printed in 500 copies in an original design (including a detachable divider). ~ François Couture, All Music Guide
