Wounds

  • Wounds
  • Wounds EP (no label) 1981 

Judging by the ferocious canine on the cover, you’d never imagine that this San Francisco band includes a flute player. Even stranger, the opening track of this four-song EP (produced by the subsequently very successful David Kahne) roars with the composed dance drive of Duran Duran, albeit not as smoothly. Unfortunately, singer Paul Casteel is an un-musical yeller who spoils whatever ambience the band is able to summon up. A fascinating mix of straight rock, arty noise and attractive understatement, all damaged by inadequate vocals.

[Ira Robbins]