Jam Tarts in the Jakehouse

Having staked their reputation on a sometimes lewd and always entertaining theatrical live show, The Bitter Tears use their new release to portray their creative growth as both musicians and storytellers. The album utilizes smart and direct pop structures to drive the menacing, old-school country twang of the songs. Known for being over-the-top, the ironic simplicity employed on tracks like "Slay The Heart of the Earth" showcase the band's conviction. Just as in their live show, no one breaks character. The raw material for the record was written late at night and early in the morning, with a threepenny orchestra's worth of instruments to help the process along. The result sounds antique, without sounding antiquated. The bawdy tales of revenge, lust and corruption are backed by a dusty array of beat-up instruments: horns, oboes, violins -- each helping to provide the same dramatic sparks that win people over on-stage.