AMG Review of Wide-Eyed Wonder

Mark W. B. Allender
All Music Guide

This much-hyped release featured the premiere of new bassist Robin Spurs. Many promotions, much press: magazine covers, major-label support, a video, radio spots. The Choir began to receive some of the attention they deserved. The sound is more dense than the previous year's Chase the Kangaroo, and in many ways more accessible. There still are a few songs ("Robin Had a Dream," "Car Etc.," "Happy Fool") that keep the whole project firmly in the "alternative" realm. Songs overall have a more sentimental angle than previous recordings, particularly "When She Sees Me" and "Wide-Eyed Wonder" -- both songs about Hindalong's newborn baby. Saxman "Buckeye Dan" Michaels really shines on this one, notably on "Robin Had a Dream." A cover of George Harrison's "Behind That Locked Door" is surprising -- and a little off-putting; it does not fit very well among the other songs. A great record.