Subliminable Messages

Revitalized by Dennis Jagard's newfound vocal intensity and the fresh talent of newcomers Mike Levy (bass) and Eric Cody (lead guitar), Ten Foot Pole has never been more energized. "Subliminable Messages" is the perfect document of this rebirth: the traditions of relentless drums, jerky guitars, and up-tempo tunes get respectful nods, but the new recording is somehow bigger than the sum of its parts and history. Each tune on "Subliminable Messages" has a distinct personality; some songs are among TFP's heaviest, while others continue the band's history of understated humor. Whether the lyrics examine the struggle to be politically effective ("Wake Up (and Smell the Fascism)") or the perils of a diabolical girlfriend ("Last Call for Russell's Balls") or the stigma of childhood labels ("Kicked Out of Kindergarten"), the band never loses sight of their trademark urgency and sincerity.