Comments (0) BEST ROCK COMPILATION - 2006
Cuve 3 Various Artists
At first glance, it looks like Boulder-based Adventure Records made some pretty lazy choices for its Cuvee 3 compilation: DeVotchKa, Hot IQs, the Swayback, Monofog, the Omens, Bright Channel, Matson Jones. But between all of these heavy-hitters -- none of which contributes exclusive songs -- are more obscure local acts that sparkle like unearthed gems. Among the highlights are tracks by the Portishead-esque Cate Coslor; the moody, rootsy Kettle Black; the seizure-inducing Mannequin Makeout; the post-punky Nightmare Fighters; and the brutally honest and arresting Rachel Pollard, who gives Chan Marshall a run with "The Waiting Song." Ultimately, Cuvee 3 is a real mixed bag, but that's what makes it a great local comp: It draws you in with the obvious, then blows your mind with some left-field risks and pleasant surprises.
