Machine Fish by Galactic Cowboys (CD, Jan-1996, Metal Blade)

The is perhaps the Cowboys' heaviest cd and perhaps almost as good as their self-titled first. This is 90's metal with sudden time changes, alternating between hard rock and thrash.

This 4-piece Texan band has a full sound that is tight. The guitar trade-offs are great and seamless. The drums are right on time all of the time. The vocals are harmoniously Beatlesque without sounding like cheesey 80's hairspray bands. The bass is probably heavier here than on their other cd's as well.

The lyrics are thought-provoking and insightful. This is a Christian band that is not preachy and asks pertinent questions about spirituality. This cd may be as witty as others, but perhaps has a more serious tone this time around.

Feel the Rage emphathizes with teenage aggression. The Struggle considers the internal battle of right vs. wrong with raspy vocals. Psychic Companion warns of the deceptive and scamming nature of psychics. In This Life and Patting Yourself on the Back consider the role of faith vs. works and human nature. Easy to Love and Arrow are thoroughly acoustic ballads. Idle Minds rails against the prominent philosophy of the world-system, a common theme of the band. Lense and Lonely Rm are the only midtempo rockers here.