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Anybody out there remember the band fIREHOSE? Well, Rix Glassmeyer manage to evoke a very similar vibe while sounding, for the most part, nothing like them. Perhaps the difference is only in the speed of the songs, as Rix Glassmeyer opt for a slower pace. But the minimalist and abstract lyrics are cut from the same cloth. Take, for example, the lyrics to the song "35," a sampling of which are as follows: "42 is backward for 24, 38 is backward for 83, and 66 is backward for 66, 28 is backward for 82...," etc., etc. These lyrics are set to a delightful classical guitar with loads of ambient reverb, and a few lovely wind instruments playing a melody line. One is left feeling like Glassmeyer has just recited something brilliant. If Cubism could be set to music, perhaps this would be it. Or how about the only lyric in the opening track: "Climb, Climb, termite, on the summit you will find the jackpot" — that's it. But this one line delivers all the necessary philosophical insight and cultural criticism necessary to make the point. Glassmeyer's vocals are at times reminiscent of Neil Young's folky feminine range, and sometimes his quirkiness recalls the best of They Might Be Giants. But regardless of what he sings—no matter how abstract (or comedic) it may seem, Glassmeyer carries a convincing tone of gravity.

Rix, as many may know, is a top-shelf drummer who normally provides the back-beat for The Gabe Dixon Band. And having studied piano in college, Rix plays drums, keys, and sings harmonies in the Rix Glassmeyer live shows—often simultaneously. Rix Glassmeyer is only a duo, and they achieve a full band sound between the two of them. The performances are extremely rare, but catch them whenever you can—these guys are an absolute treat to watch live. Fans of avant garde jazz, psychedelic, and slowcore will find much to like in Rix Glassmeyer. — Vincent Wynne, April 25, 2008

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