We Live In Rented Rooms

Fred Cornog (a.k.a. East River Pipe) has never been nearly as “lo-fi” as critics have suggested. His expert sense of sonic space has always given his recordings an extra kick and an aura of professionalism, despite being recorded on home equipment in his old apartment or his newer house. As can be expected, Cornog leans on reverb to create a summery pop sound that obscures the dark and awful tales that often lurk underneath the surface. “When You Were Doing Cocaine” is sharp, cynical humor matched with solid human insights. “Tommy Made a Movie” stalks a sad character obsessed with pornography. “Backroom Deals” is a basic outlay of a life without enviable rewards. Yet, the music never mimics this sullen worldview. Cornog specializes in singing these songs with verve and a sense that he never lost that touch of the Beach Boys and Big Star inside him. The melodies are too sweet. The harmonies are too rich. “I Don’t Care About Your Blue Wings” is like a mini-movie where the singer flies over the neighborhood regardless of his human condition. Cornog is an overlooked musical wunderkind.