Chris Knox - Croaker (1991)

From his punk band Toy Love through to his concurrent career as a solo artist and member of Tall Dwarf, Chris Knox has consistently created twisted melodic lo-fi gems. This album brings together all of his strengths in one cohesive album. Most of the songs are built up on homemade rhythm loops and staccato distorted guitar riffs layered with cheap keyboards and periodic strings. What sets this apart from many other lo-fi albums is his inventive melodies and arrangements. He doesn’t for a second let the limitations of his recording process constrain him. These aren’t one-offs or demos; they’re fully formed studio creations on a budget. Somehow this small album feels enourmous. The songs touch on politics, humanity, and druggy metaphysics, as well as a heavy vein of existential anxiety and doubt. - Vox Phantom - Unsung Review