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WUSC DESK r" . : I Joan of Arc Jean of Arc, Dick Cheney, MartTwaiUPolyvinyl) TThe puzzling title of Joan of Arc’s sixth album is an appropriate introduction into the mind of Joan of Arc’s eccentric frontman, Tim Kinsella. His lyrics consist of intricate-yet-awkward wordplay, resulting in a high level of indeterminacy. In the live setting, Tim Kinsella is equally as perplexing, his oddball stage presence and downright weird antics (often aided by large quantities of beer) have become the stuff of indie rock legend. Given Kinsella’s penchant for the odd, it is no surprise his band’s music is somewhat off-kilter and challenging. The 17 songs on this album stick their tongues out in mockery at traditional song structure yet still manage to retain some pop sensibilities. The mishmash of instruments used is staggering, everything from viola to vibraphone to cowbell. All of these coalesce perfectly to create music that at first glance seems simplistic but in truth reveals something new with each listen. Kinsella’s voice is typically understated, not moving mountains but instead digging an intricate tunnel system underneath. Joan of Arc, Dick Cheney, Mark Twain ... “is a wonderful introduction to Kinsella’s weird world that will also please long-time fans. I__J Beep Beep Business Casual (Saddle Creek) Saddle Creek is a label that has methodically worked its way into the hearts of indie kids nationwide, the incredible fame and exposure of one teary-eyed troubadour not withstanding. Saddle Creek bands are known for their bleeding heart sincerity and relatively low-key musical stylings, with the exception of devious dance maestros, the Faint. Beep Beep is a band that provides ample ammunition for when Saddle Creek decides to get down and dirty. Their sound is overtly sexual, a detached and desperate glare across a smoky dance floor. Vocalist Chris Hughes is a dynamo of sexual tension, capable of sassy swagger and hushed romantics. Hughes’ voice knows no limits, invoking the falsetto howl of Ian Svenonius (Nation of Ulysses) or Robert Smith’s emotionally tattered croon. Musically, Beep Beep offers up tunes that sometimes stomp, sometimes shimmy and often do both. Falling shards of guitar sync up with grooving bass lines to create a somewhat typical, but nonetheless effectively dance-y post-punk whole. By NATHAN REDMOND WUSC Music Director, Mouse on Mars Radical Connector (Thrill Jockey) Two adjectives come to mind when describing the German spirit — innovation and industry. Forget about the tendency to direct those qualities toward unsavory pursuits like world domination; instead, the Germans deserve admiration for pushing music into new territory. In the ’70s, Kraftwerk and Can delved into far corners of the musical universe. In that forward thinking tradition, electronic duo Mouse On Mars has become one of the most critically acclaimed and prolific groups since its inception in 1994. “Radical Connector” is its eighth full-length release and finds the team of Andi Toma and Jan, St. Werner in somewhat familiar territory. Glitchy, skittering electronic beats hover then jet off into the distance, capable of giving heart palpitations at their meanest and mind-enhancing clarity at their most pleasant. Vocals rest on top of the music, dissected and reassembled to fit their shifting bed. But the music is far from a choppy mess, pieces ultimately fit where they should and at times the songs here may appeal to more adventurous Postal Service fans. Vista After Fall 2004 Schedule All shows 5:30 - 9:30 p.m. in the parking area behind Jillian’s Entertainment Complex at 800 Gervais St. Admission is free. Thursday The Fantastic Shakers Sept. 2 Fresh Air Sept. 9 The Men of Distinction Sept. 16 The Fabulous Kays Sept. 23 O’Kaysions Sept. 30 The Catalinas Oct. 7 The Band of Oz Oct. 14 The Embers i : i THE GAMECOCK IS LOOKING FOR HELP FOR THE FALL SEMESTER. Come to the interest meeting tonight at 7 p.m. in Russell House room 304. No experience necessary. F to each of the^e office** K %-spy JF * v f&r making Move-In Weekend2004 a <mcceMi ■ m * &*&*** SinceteVyyo^ ■ Admissions Bursar’s Office 4 Business and Finance Campus Recreation CarolinaCard Carolina Dining Services Carolina Collegiate Federal Credit Union Computer Services Enrollment Management Facility Services Financial Aid and Scholarships Health & Safety International Programs for Students Law Enforcement & Safety Media Relations Orientation and Testing Office of the Provost Parents Programs Postal Services Registrar's Office Russell House University Union Student Affairs Student Disability Services Student Health Center Student Life Thomas Cooper Library University Bookstore University Housing iVehicle Management & Parking Services Visitor Center % r all star student organizations were led by the 4, Residence Hall Association and Student Government J A special thank you to the countless faculty and staff members who were volunteers with the USC Move-In Crew! - . * ?