Crashing the Ether

'While we all know there's a fine line between 'rock legend' and 'cult figure,' there is no doubt that [Tommy] Keene is one of America's greatest, unheralded songwriters,' proclaims Rolling Stone. Keene creates pure jangle pop full of heartache and minor sevenths, but he infuses it with a rough-around-the-edges approach that has drawn comparisons to the likes of The Replacements, Matthew Sweet, and the Posies. Along with two albums for Geffen and two for the indie-rock enthusiasts of Matador, his career has seen him tour as a guitarist for Paul Westerberg and Velvet Crush. Crashing the Ether, his tenth solo release in over two decades of crafting sweetly perfect pop hooks, finds Keene at a crossroads -- 'I'd always thought, the more people I brought into a solo record the more personality it would have. This time, I tried the Prince routine, and it was such a freeing experience. Every night, I could go and practice in my home studio and overdub any instrument until I got it right. It's really liberating.' Crashing the Ether features John Richardson on drums as well as guest appearances by Jesse Valenzuela (Gin Blossoms) and Walt Vincent (Pete Yorn). Following the release, Tommy will tour with Guided By Voices' Robert Pollard as guitarist and keyboardist. (eleven thirty records)