Work of Saws - Motivation and Watertower Grammar (2001)

The most important and effective tool for an artist to have at their disposal is a hyperactive imagination, the ability to find inspiration in literally anything. Showcasing Work of Saws' playful sense of humor and singer Brock Davis' clear, honest voice, Motivation and Watertower Grammar owes at least as much to the retention of such precocious enthusiasm as it does to Robert Pollard. The 44 curt yet beautiful songs on Motivation jump from Gram Parsons-inspired country ballad, to an indie pop four-track hiss, to a gorgeous Brill Building or Laurel Canyon melody and back again. Davis' charming lisp and tireless songwriting bind the disparate styles together throughout with a poignant silliness that is child-like, but never cloying or irritating.