CD Reviews

On their first recording since 1997’s 'Backpack' demos, The Bensons really have the opportunity to spread their wings on a full length record that takes the listener on a journey not only through the band's world but through the myriad styles of music they create.

What mostly stands out is the record's funky nature, with Jefferson T. 'Doubleberry' Benson’s bass lines particularly presenting that very 1970's sound.

The Bensons on one of their adventures.

This is complemented by Larry Barry Benson's meaty guitars which meander through styles from a similar funk to the bass to hard rock and heavy metal riffage.

These mix with Barney Boy Benson's accomplished drum parts which again sway between styles, and even include a cowbell, to form a sort of music that can really only be described as falling somewhere between James Brown, The Red Hot Chilli Peppers and Tenacious D.

The album works as almost a greatest hits package of Bengolia's finest including many of the bands live favourites such as the metal/funk hybrid of 'Before You Lose It' and plain get up and dance tune 'Booty Dooty'.

However the record also lets us know a bit more about the bands adventures before they came to Guernsey, in the town of Bensonville and its surrounding regions. Throughout the disc we are regaled with tales of such characters as 'El Rocco' and 'Big Bad Benson' and their nefarious exploits, and we are treated to the legendary tale of 'The Amazing Adventures of Monkey Roodle Ray & His Little Pet Dog Called Spot'.

And even a mini David Attenborough style nature documentary looking at the surprisingly territorial and downright funky 'Nosneb Monkeys' of the Bengolian Rainforest.

The Bensons - going for gold.

All of this comes together to form a fantastic package that documents one of Guernsey’s most unique musical outfits. Though the band are most definitely one who have to be seen to be believed, 'Tardrobe Wardis' allows the listener to see The Bensons' live shows in a new light and finally sheds some light on the different costumes the band are famous for.

Musically speaking the band sound excellent on record and certain aspects have hints of several other local bands (though I've no idea why!). Although the production doesn't quite capture the bands live energy it still sounds great and once again proves the quality and skill of Electric Index Studios' Danny Joyce.

Overall this is a fantastically written and well produced album, though it's safe to say a recording can never beat the live experience presented by The Bensons, but as they don't play live 24/7 this is the next best thing.