September 12, 2005

Variations on a Theme Park

Space Mtn

The last time you gave Space Mountain a try, you were 9 — and not all that thrilled about the experience. (Neither was Mickey, after you barfed all over his shoes on the way out.)

Maybe it’s time to give it another whirl.

We’re talking about the new band Space Mtn (no relation to the theme park). Their debut album, A Drawing of a Memory of a Photograph of You, features sounds in the family of The Shins or Death Cab for Cutie, but takes darker, more brooding dips for moody melodies that don’t bring you down.

In “The Bright Side,” singer/songwriter Dina Waxman poignantly reminds listeners to keep a chin up even in the darkest times. “Hovercraft” and the bouncy-and-loud “Oh” exemplify the band’s energetic side. “Past Tense” ends the album on a peaceful, chill note.

At which point, you might just find yourself in The Happiest Place on Earth.

And you won’t even have to wait in line.

Available online at spacemtn.com.