REVIEW: Voluntary Butler Scheme - Trading Things In (Single)
Wednesday, 21 October 2009
Written by Matt Hamm
Voluntary Butler Scheme is the precious creation of one man, Rob Jones. The Birmingham based solo band-man uses his home studio to create most of this music, making debut album At Breakfast, Dinner, Tea armed with an arsenal of instruments – including a kazoo and a ukulele; a man after any music lover’s heart, I think you’d agree.
His music is the personification of the Juno soundtrack; with catchy melodies, even cuter lyrics and an entirely twee outlook on life and love. Single Trading Things In presents itself as a paper-mache mould of Noah & the Whale’s sound and The Eels effortless lyrics. It leaves a sweet nostalgic taste in your mouth, like a musical cherry Popsicle. Jones sings “if you were broccoli, I’d turn vegetarian for you” echoing the basic, yet sugary effect of Barry Louis Polisar; blending the unusual and affectionate in equal measure.
The single is backed up with three other tracks to wet your whistle, all wrapped in deep but surreal nostalgia, almost like being trapped in a 70s fairground love tunnel on an acid trip. Heart Too Bored To Beat is a spaced out day dream. While Arctic Climate has a beat that trickles in the background, forming the backbone for a strong song basked in sentiment. But Vending Machine stands alone as the oddest track on the CD. It is pretty, but bizarre at every turn. The distorted atmosphere takes the listener on a stumble through a field of sunflowers with heat exhaustion. It’s an experience to say the least.
The pick’n’mix combination of sugar coated lyrics, pleasant tunes and heart rending atmosphere will please some, but fail to dazzle many. If you like cute, sugary music, then Rob Jones’ musical outfit will suit you down to the ground. But if you lack that sweet tooth, then maybe only dip your little finger in the sherbet world of Volunteer Butler Scheme.
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