Fossil

The New York-based four-piece Fossil, led by singer Bob O'Gureck and guitarist Randy Staley, released their self-titled debut in 1995 following the EP Crumb. With bassist Neil Mosc and drummer Tom Cottone rounding out the lineup, Fossil is a consistent, and at times extraordinary, collection of well-crafted pop/rock defined by articulate lyrics and melodic craftsmanship. "Moon" leads things off with a wall of dense, driving guitars and some clever wordplay. On "Tim, " the band manages to appropriate the harmonies and vibe of Jellyfish to good effect. "Martyr's Wife" is a wry look at the life of Jesus from a significant other all over a soundtrack of fuzz-tone guitars and crystalline percussion. And, on "Josephine Baker, " Staley adds mandolin to the gentle ache of O'Gureck's lament that he pines for the love of the late entertainer. Fossil has managed to deliver a fresh, intelligent, buoyant pop album with their debut that is a joyful listen from start to finish. ~ Tom Demalon, Rovi