When it was announced this summer that the Rustic Overtones were getting back together, the future of As Fast As was immediately thrown into doubt. Surely, AFA frontman and Rustic keyboardist Spencer Albee couldn’t pull double-duty with two of Portland’s biggest bands.
But Sir Albee has done it again. This time, in a basement.
Not only is As Fast As still fully functioning, they’ve released a brand new album. It’s called Destroy The Plastique Man, and it’s wildly different from any of Albee’s past work.
The album, which is partly written by USM student Dominic Lavoie of Dominic & The Lucid, features an unpredictable assortment of instruments, production techniques, and musical styles. It’s a strong step forward for As Fast As, and it’s sure to be one of the strongest releases in Portland this year. Albee produced it in the comfort of his own basement studio.
Destroy The Plastique Man, available now at Bull Moose Music, is a perfect blend of Albee’s past work and his willingness to explore new territory. “Homewrecker” starts with a precise electronic scamper, only before hitting a wall of guitars and organs that are reminiscent of Albee’s first album, The Popsicko.
The track “The Road To Hell” revisits the 1970s’ funky dance vibe of the song “Saturday Night” from Albee’s Rocktopus days, 2002-2004. While the LP is full of brilliant experimental “electronic-meets-rock” mash-ups, As Fast As manages to retain their familiar catchiness and knack for melody.
Also noticeable is the plethora of bands that continue to influence As Fast As. You can tell the band has been praying at the church of Electric Light Orchestra with the string-scattered track, “Dancing A Murderous Tango.”
The Melvern Taylor-tinged “Me Ow” is highlighted with excellent use of ukelele, bells, and mellotron.
“What A Shame (Delicious Shame)” pays ample tribute to The Beatles, and features a progressive synth breakdown that would make Yes blush.
Go see As Fast As perform selections from “Destroy The Plastique Man” at their CD Release Party on March 14 at The Asylum. The show is 21+.
I hope to get hold of Sir Albee’s Destroy The Platique Man Album to experience the new concept of him.