The (International) Noise Conspiracy

The (International) Noise Conspiracy still get treated as a slightly edgier entity than they really are, in part because they formed from the ashes of a hardcore band (Refused, featuring lead singer Dennis Lyxzen) and in part because they've sung about red state-terrifying things like communism and socialism. Musically, the rough edges of Refused were deliberately smoothed away from the beginning; Lyxzen sees the Noise Conspiracy as a more populist vehicle, playing a familiar brand of rock and pop-punk, wearing matching outfits, and thus broadcasting the band's message to a broader base.

The Cross Of My Calling again finds the Swedes wearing their Situationist politics on their sleeves, and a look at the tracklist confirms that their native country isn't their main focus ("Washington Bullets," "Storm The Gates of Beverly Hills"). Right from the start, though, they present a different and sometimes ill-fated side to their sound–starting with an instrumental jam ("Intro") that hints at some of the more psychedelic, soul-rock-oriented sounds to come. It does little to draw the listener into the album, and "Assassination of Myself"–sounding like a somewhat agitated Fountains of Wayne–doesn't help. "Dustbins of History" better communicates the band's strengths–a socially conscious message wrapped up in a sugar rush of danceable, disposable rock melodies and catchy choruses that incite immediate repetition (like any good propaganda). "Arm Yourself" features a heavier dose of what was suggested by "Intro," including a noodling psychedelic guitar solo and a Doors-y organ. "Boredom of Safety" features more psych-rock tangents and has whispers of Southern rock and blues–channeled competently, but still not at all the band’s forte. By midpoint, it seems like Lyxzen and his comrades have lost their way a bit.

Then they take a timeout with the jammy instrumental "Interlude," which sounds like the cue to take a bathroom break at a classic rock concert. When the band comes back for the second half, it's like they're a sports team who just received a halftime tongue lashing from their coach after a lackluster start. They pick up steam right away, still using the same collection of influences, but with more energy and urgency. Fans looking to clap along and stomp along will be relieved by the arrival of "I Am The Dynamite," "Storm The Gates Of Beverly Hills" and "Washington Bullets"–the latter a ska-influenced track that also bears some resemblance to the likable fire of Ted Leo & The Pharmacists. They'd still benefit from showing a little more teeth and fire amidst the polish; it’s refreshing to hear Lyxzen shriek "Sacrifice!" on "Black September"–accessibility be damned.

—Adam McKibbin
11.24.08