Fixation Protocols

THE CAPSTAN SHAFTS are a one-man-band from Lyndonville, Vermont, masterminded by DEAN WELLS. With over 17 releases since 2004 (self-released under his own Ladder The Xmas Monkey and through labels such as Asaurus and Yellow Mica), describing The Capstan Shafts as steadily prolific would be an understatement. However, until 2007's excellently-received Environ Maidenon Rainbow Quartz, his catalog was not properly distributed, although word on Wells’ deliriously prodigious recordings has been percolating in the indie pop underground and building momentum with each new release.

In 2008 we welcome the second Rainbow Quartz release by THE CAPSTAN SHAFTS: Fixation Protocols is an album that has grown from its lo-fi roots to a more maturely-crafted sound. His inclination towards brevity persists, with nearly all the 22 lo-fi songs getting to the point in under two minutes. The appealing homemade indie fuzz-rock is still replete with catchy melodies, perfect playful pop hooks, and classic rock guitar riffs. This album conjures early R.E.M. through a lysergic prism, GUIDED BY VOICES and WIRE. Some have mentioned hints of LOU BARLOW, THE MOUNTAIN GOATS and NEUTRAL MILK HOTEL.