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We are happy to report that VHS or Beta's new endeavor Bring on the Comets (Astralwerks) has dissolved any thoughts one may have harbored about these boys from Louisville in their absence. Craig Pfunder and company (which includes a new member) have rendered an inspired album amped up with guitar solo worthy riffs and a whopping dose of keyboards. These 12 seamless tracks are just like heaven - hints of XTC's Andy Partridge, especially in their single 'Can't Believe a Single Word.' Coupled with Joy Division reverbs, songs like 'She Says' layer sweet vocals over that unmistakable VHS or Beta backbeat that makes any classic influence completely their own. Others are tripping over the pleasingly mature title track, yet the real peak of the album falls under the guise of 'Burn it All Down.' It highlights the best of what made us fall for the band in the first place - an invincible chorus to sing along to, punctuated by insane, yet concentrated, rhythms that render it impossible to stand still. Whether or not the quest for the perfect pop song is intentional in their growth, VHS or Beta have reached new heights with this release.

~Text and Film by Abbey Braden