The Mutton Birds - Envy Of Angels (1996)

Envy of Angels could have been recorded ten years earlier considering its invocation of the new south -- in particular the moodiness of Dumptruck -- not to mention similarities to more commercial guitar rock of the same period, such as that of 54-40. Perhaps it isn't a coincidence that Hugh Jones, who also worked with Dumptruck, produced Envy of Angels. He renders the Mutton Birds' guitar strum and jangle in more solemn than bright tones, which suits the sometimes poetic lyrics and unusual chord progressions. There are plenty of hooks in these songs, with "April" and "While You Sleep" being only two standouts. Despite the album's strengths, there is an obscure quality about Envy of Angels that will preserve the Mutton Birds' cult status while rewarding those listeners who find them.