Adam Green
October 22, 2002
Rough Trade
It opens with Apples, I'm Home which immediately sets the quirky tone. The funny, ironic tone that the whole album is drenched in is immediately noticable. The record is also sharp and socially engaged as you can hear on My Shadow Tags Behind, Mozzarella Swastikas and Times Are Bad.
Mixing styles from the twenties up to now, Green's awkward art-folk reminds us of two great Lous, Reed and Barlow because of the cheeky commentary and irony that fuels the songs. Green might not have the most accessible vocals but he does manage to engage the listener with his witty and clever use of words and evocative choices.
Top songs on the record are Bartholomew with it's beautifully awkward duet and Dance With Me which is a little more accessible yet also more vocal and straight forward in its expressing. The chorus is actually quite captivating in its own way. Other songs that deserve mention are Baby's Gonna Die Tonight, Can You See Me and Bleeding Heart.
"Garfield" is a clever, cheeky and gloomy record that stands out in being different but also because of its sharp and witty nature. It won't be for everyone but if you like your music infused with social commentary, clever use of lyrics and brooding vocals, you will feel right at home here.