Ativin

German Water

Secretly Canadian Records

Like currents. Still air moves and billows. Waves kick up shells and froth. Steady and soothing, Ativin climax without giving notice before suddenly recommitting with an antithesis titled "Fortune Telling Fish." What is Ativin? And what do they yield if not marching songs for the drowsy tykes stumbling off to bed with their fingers in their eyes? It becomes important at this point to add that guitars and drums are at the heart of this gentle beast. Postmath already? Hardly, this sailor has a compass. Those without patience may quickly conclude that Ativin is morose. Notice that they are taking the time to fill the space between notes with silence. Secretly Canadian Records, 1703 North Maple St., Bloomington, IN 47404

--Chad Bidwell

***