Take the romantic pop 80s and mix it with alternative 90s sound and that is what Alice Sweet Alice are all about on Mandala. This is a band from Kansas City, MO, with touches of everything from Joy Division and Portishead, to STP and even Pink Floyd clearly heard as influences. Being a top seller in Europe, this isn't a middle of the road act, they actually have all it takes. The vocals of Ali Cat are perfect for their musical backdrop, as she puts on an amazing showing of originality. Guitarist Ron Bales is not only clean, but just as dirty when needed. They are backed by Scott Martinez on guitar and vocals, and Billy Brown on drums. Altogether this is a very enjoyable current and classic effort in one, which is challenging to describe without completely giving everything away.

This review is available in book format (hardcover and paperback) in Music Street Journal: 2012  Volume 5 at lulu.com/strangesound.

This is always the right way to start, with a solid opening groove to set the pace. The ambience is almost theatrical, which gives it sort of a gothic vibe that simply won't quit. All in all, this is a good way to lead the proceedings in. The guitars just do the business, as they soar at every opportunity. Cats comes on reasonably strong to establish the Alice Sweet Alice sound, which is at times intricate, and others very straightforward.

I'm not as blown over with this track at first, but it picks up and gains a lot of ground and becomes an even better number than the opener. Fantastic lyrics are laid over an eclectic rock number. This is just a finely composed song that keeps the listener glued for the next one. An excellent guitar solo is included, as well here, showing off great work from Ron Bales.