Former front man of Jane’s Addiction and Porno For Pyros Perry Farrell released the debut album of his third project band Satellite Party, “Ultra Payloaded,” last Tuesday.
I met this album somewhat tainted, having enjoyed pieces of their single “Wish Upon a Dog Star” weeks prior on the radio, and it happened to be the opening track on the album.
“Dog Star” had a fresh and electric sound, therefore it’s no surprise that its carried Satellite Party to relative popularity in today’s alternative scene. Oddly enough, it stands out in “Ultra Payloaded” as one of the few songs that wasn’t contaminated by Farrell’s ’80s influence.
I shouldn’t say contaminated. Farrell championed some of the best music to come out of the ’80s and ’90s, and his work these days, like Satellite Party, is still hard rock. He makes great leaps in experimenting with more modern beats and electronica, but falls back on hair band vocals and guitar riffs. “Kinky” is the most guilty culprit of the bunch.
But credit where it’s due. Farrell and the gang find some rock-steady dance beats that are fun and original- have a listen to “The Solutionists” or “Mr. Sunshine.”
It’s still a good listen. I did double takes on some of the catchier songs. The inclusion of Jim Morrison’s revamped track “Woman in the Window” alone makes it worthwhile. Farrell’s fusions might be confusing at first, but whatever gets your head nodding will work.
