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REVIEWS Daily Illini, March 6, 1998 review, entire text: The Good One band has distinguished itself from other Chicago performers. Whitehouse Records' The Good have combined strong lyrics, perfect harmonies, and diverse melodies to create their second album, Milky White (produced by Smashing Pumpkins engineer Chris Shepard). With such a powerful release under their belts, I predict The Good is on the way to national attention. The Good takes basic rock to another level. Tony Rogers (University alum) and Devin Arkin, The Good's lyricists and vocalists, are former promotions writers from Chicago. In addition, Rogers and Arkin, along with John Scholvin, David Russell, and John Goodman, have performed a song for a Budweiser ad and have written songs for a stage play. The Good uses this diverse background to create music that expands both lyrically and musically beyond the average alternative pop around today. In fact, the songs flow much like a musical production. With its storytelling tunes, Milky White could as easily be developed on the theater stage as it does on the concert stage. The Good's lyrics look at social problems today and mistakes of the past. They focus on controversial topics with a slight touch of cynicism. "Atticus" covers subjects from Thomas Jefferson's racism to Marion Berry's former drug problem. Harry Truman's decision on dropping the atomic bomb is questioned in "Harry & the Mushroom." Unlike other alternative bands who advocate giving up, The Good stresses becoming involved and staying educated to curb these social difficulties. Thankfully, they successfully spread this positive social outlook without falling prey to motivational sermons or California Dreamin' goofiness which less-talented bands might encounter. "Ten Years After," for instance, tells those tired of sexism and racism to get off their asses and do something about it. Other songs distinguish themselves on Milky White. "Tinky McVieux" stands out by sounding like a worn-out record and developing into a grinding rock song full of harmonies. "Evenin'" is an amusing tune about being pulled over by the cops. The Good doesn't verbally destroy the police, but humorously vocalizes the annoyance we all feel when we're stopped for speeding. "You must have better things to do than clock my speed... Somebody's donut shop has a sports page you could read." The Good's Milky White is an amazing sophomore release. Using Dylan-esque lyrics and driving rock instruments, The Good will no doubt have a successful future. Quite a stretch from their commercial jingle days. |