Archers of Loaf

Recorded live in 1998 at the regionally famous Cat's Cradle in Chapel Hill, NC, Seconds Before the Accident was released two years later, after Archers of Loaf disbanded. The set list is heavy on material from the band's amazing debut, Icky Mettle, and burns with a noise rock intensity that is more reminiscent of the group's early recordings than later works like White Trash Heroes. Things aren't quite as reckless as they were when Archers of Loaf first hit the indie circuit, but the high-impact numbers and spirited performances do justice to this legendary live act's massive reputation. Highlights include the Icky Mettle hit "Web in Front" and "Fabricoh" from their second studio full-length, Vee Vee. Fans of indie rock icons Pavement and Guided by Voices who haven't yet heard Archers of Loaf wouldn't be disappointed if they started their Archers collection with Seconds Before the Accident. Icky Mettle, however, is the lone must-own offering in the Archers of Loaf's oeuvre. ~ Vincent Jeffries, All Music Guide