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Innominate refers to the three sub-bones of the hip in human anatomy. This makes sense considering that lead singer/guitarist Jamie Behar is a medical surgeon with special interest in anatomy and brain functions. Speaking of the brain, Off Minor's music is intellectual and 'brainy', yet does not lack in visceral and emotional urgency. They have defined themselves well enough by this point that they defy all “ex-members of” analysis (if you do not know the facts, Google them). They are constantly expanding their blend of post-hardcore and hard jazz, and even when it did not seem possible, the songs on Innominate have become more complex and fast than the Heat Death of the Universe LP or their split with I Am The Resurrection. The lyrics mirror the best qualities of the instrumentation; they are smart, chaotic, abstract and vaguely political. One of the interesting developments, linguistically is an increase of the near-Yeatsian questions, as in the opening track “Cadaveric”: “perhaps these hands held children's hands, but what do they hold now?” which finally turns to Foucault's issue of signs and their signified: “no biography in biology / no history in histriology”. In my opinion, Off Minor is (in terms of technical ability) the best and most vital band to rise out of the late '90's 'screamo' scene. This record is particularly welcome in its no nonsense approach, when the majority of NYC bands are cultivating image, attitude and their hipster following, but really saying little or nothing new at all. There is more Negative Approach than David Bowie in Off Minor, and they earn a million kudos for resisting the temptation of becoming another shitty 'girl jeans and blouses' band. Reviewed by: Chris Bock |
