ComfortComes

Cake – Motorcade of Generosity

The members of Cake come off like folk hero badasses in second release of Motorcade of Generosity. This band manages to take genres such as rock, hip hop, folk, and blues to create a mash-up that is uniquely their own. Laid back vocals and carefree lyrics permeate the album, and definitely give hint at the band’s California routes. With a few exceptions, this album is a collection of songs that are put together well and showcase the band’s charisma.

What’s amazing about this album is how well it’s held up over the years. Hand this album to a stranger who’s never heard of the band. Make them listen, and see if they think the album came from 1994. I certainly wouldn’t think so. This album’s ability to sound ageless is one it’s strongest selling points, and I can really understand why the band would choose to unleash this on the public a second time.

The word charismatic definitely fits this collection of tracks. Songs like Comanche and Mr. Mastodon Farm have little to do with anything, but still manage to remain catchy and attention grabbing. The band has a way of making you want to get behind them, cheering them on regardless of what they’re saying. No song proves this theory more than Pentagram, a tune that may be the most upbeat portrayal of a satanic ritual. Artistic expression is great, but I feel this song would definitely turn any would be fans away, even in spite of it’s musical appeal.

The songs that have a more accessible meaning shine through and are key instances of musical greatness. Ruby Sees All is a flat out great song, in my opinion. Clashing drums fuse with an ingenious mix of acoustic and electric guitar, with John McCrea’s nonchalant leading the charge. It’s fun, feel good music through and through. Another song Cake should be proud of is Jolene. This song has to be played with sunglasses on. It’s a track that will get girls moving on the dance floor, and features a very cool breakdown towards the end where the band’s true energy is revealed. These guys know how to jam.

Throughout the album, Cake remains clever with its use of the trumpet. They find a way for it to take the stage at times, yet it never becomes too distracting in the background. The brass is haunting at times, cheerful at others, and never unwelcome. In addition, the background vocals also add tremendously to the album’s flare. The harmonies seemingly place you in the room with the band, as if they were performing for a small group of friends around a campfire. It’s an effect that works well, and they pull it off in a way few others have.

It’s been established that if I had one word used to describe Cake’s original album, it would be charismatic. If I had a second, I would choose pure. This album is pure. Motorcade of Generosity wears its heart on its sleeve, boldly so. You get a true sense of who the band is, and what they’re about. It makes you want to hear more. Luckily enough, there’s plenty more to hear already.