2006, Barsuk
Trying to Never Catch Up, the debut release from What Made Milwaukee Famous -- originally released in 2004, but here remastered (with additional tracks, no less) and subsequently re-released by Barsuk Records -- opens with the poppy, synth-driven track, "Idecide," provides an excellent introduction to the thickly layered sound -- but simultaneously and paradoxically open and light -- of the Austin, Texas-based band.
What Made Milwaukee Famous is notable for their songwriting skill, pulling elements from early 80's groups but still managing to retain a very clear sense of something fresh. Never does Trying to Never Catch Up feel like a retro throwback record; the sense of individuality this band manages to capture is admirable.
Tracks like "Hopelist" and "The Jeopardy of Contentment" offer a view of What Made Milwaukee Famous as a band that's not afraid to slow things down a little and open up their sound -- and it's a breath of fresh air from the distorted vocals and guitars; thankfully, the band seems to recognize this aspect of their music and allows opportunity for listeners and, undoubtedly, the band themselves, the opportunity to relax and just make music.
Trying to Never Catch Up is an incredible record; from the energetic highs of the title track, "Trying to Never Catch Up," to the most ethereal moments of the folksy "Hopelist," What Made Milwaukee Famous has provided an album that's difficult to stop.