Frigid Stars (CD - 1990)

Personnel: Stephen Immerwahr (vocals); Chris Brokaw (guitar, drums); John Engle (guitar).

Recording information: Brooklyn, NY (08/1990).

Photographer: Laura Larson.

Sub Pop recording artists Codeine rose out of the ironic yet sensitive, slop-grunge lo-fi aesthetic of the early '90s, as typified by bands like Pavement. As its name implies, Codeine plays an opiated, introspective, almost sludge-like rock that sounds at once heavy and drowsy.

Bassist Steve Immerwahr's understated, adenoidal vocals add atmospheric effect, as on the mumbled monologue of "Cigarette Machine," or the genuinely poignant singing on the lonely "New Year's," possibly the album's highlight. Drummer Chris Brokaw provides solid backing, and guitarist John Engle alternates crunching power chords with angular, Sonic Youth-inspired melody lines to create contrasting textures. The final track, "Pea," with its spacious arrangement and quirky lyrics, varies the stylistic make-up of FRIGID STARS somewhat, yet maintains the album's sleepy, dream-like tone. minimize