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Track Review: Mogwai "Gouge Away"

8:51 a.m. · November 19, 2007 · by Jeff Klingman

Of all the many Pixies' disciples, Mogwai are perhaps the most dour. Their career has expanded on the legendary band's technique, while ignoring the demented joie de vivre that made Black Francis and company such a kick. What good is a quiet to loud shock if it doesn't punctuate a moment of raw emotion? This cover of Doolittle's immortal "Gouge Away," from the upcoming Dig For Fire compilation, falls slightly short in a predictable way. The drumbeat is authoritative and brutal. The guitars sound even more damaged than the original, with feedback fog completely engulfing Stuart Braithwaite's brogue. On a purely sonic level it's tough and imposing, all grumble and crunch. But the maniac delivery is sorely missed. Even when cryptic, you felt like there was something at stake in Frank's vignettes. This has too much head and not enough heart.

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