Quick, Before It Melts.

In a scene right out of your favourite western movie, five guys from L.A. calling themselves The Brokedown faced a Chicago-based band in a showdown for naming rights, and came away re-christened but none the worse for wear. Now, under the name The Broken West, these Los Angelinos are releasing a debut album via Merge Records called I Can't Go On, I'll Go On. There's about a million musical clichés you could use to describe The Broken West's sound (power-pop, jangle-rock etc. etc.) but what's really important to know about them is that their is a heart and soul beating beneath each of their songs that infuses them with life and vitality . Compare them to Wilco, the Byrds, Big Star or whomever you want; it doesn't matter, they all fit. In time, if they keep turning out great tracks like "Down In The Valley At Night", we'll be comparing some other up-and-coming band to The Broken West, and it will be a compliment of the highest order.

The Broken West, "Down In The Valley"

The Broken West online: official | Myspace | Merge Records