Deerhoof
Offend Maggie (Kill Rock Stars)
Reviewed by Audra Schroeder, Fri., Nov. 7, 2008
Deerhoof
Offend Maggie (Kill Rock Stars)This S.F. quartet's unwieldy oeuvre is an easy target for derision, but after a decade, Deerhoof has finally straightened up. Musicianship is the key: New second guitarist Ed Rodriguez adds a nice sheen to John Dietrich's low end, drummer Greg Saunier's maniacal playing is its most metered yet, and singer Satomi Matsuzaki's singing and lyrics have matured (the latter a little less than the former). "The Tears and Music of Love," "Chandelier Searchlight," "Buck and Judy," and "Family of Others" are grownup Deerhoof, complete with tangible, guitar-driven melodies. Some moments lapse back into oddball ("Basket Ball Get Your Groove Back," "This Is God Speaking"), but the foursome has definitely found a seam. Hopefully it will keep those little hoofs moving forward. (6:30pm, Stage 1.)
