The Halo Benders - God Don't Make No Junk

A pretty even-steven stylistic split between project partners Calvin Johnson (Beat Happening, Dub Narcotic Sound System) and Doug Martsch (Built to Spill), this multi-faceted disc could practically serve as a textbook for an "Intro to Indie Rock" class. From goofy surf-pop like "Don't Touch My Bikini" (which recalls the B-52s' pre-fame giddiness) to intricate proto-progressive experiments like "Freedom Rider," the duo pushes consistently forward with both confidence and offhand charm. Taken piece by piece, God Don't Make No Junk is a nifty pop collection, but digested whole, it's much more: it's an affirmation of the stubbornly D.I.Y. ideal that's made the Pacific Northwest such a creative magnet for the last decade, and a signal that that spirit is still there in full force. --David Sprague Amazon.com

Halo Benders are very interesting

I liked this CD. It is unique and takes a open or learned ear. It striks me as distinctly Indie, before Indie was made into what it is now. If you appreciate bands like Modest Mouse, Braid, or Built to Spill, you'll probably like This CD. December 25, 2008

Even better for fans of Built to Spill & Beat Happening

I just heard about this band recently, so I don't know a whole lot about the Halo Benders.
Built to Spill and Beat Happening have been two bands I have enjoyed for a few years now. When I found out about The Halo Benders I just had to order a couple.
The combination of Calvin Johnson's(Beat Happening) voice along w/ Doug Martsch's(Built to Spill) vocals intrigued me to hear it for myself.
And it does work. Maybe sounds a little "out there" to some- but hey that's what I like.
Calvin Johnson has a really deep voice and Doug, well it's hard to describe his voice, but it's lighter(or shinier) with a lot more range and melody. Sometimes they use their styles together or separate, makes for an interesting listen. Singing in different pitches.
My favorite song is ("single"): "Don't Touch My Bikini"
Might sound a little challenging for listeners, if you're not familiar with these two bands(Built to Spill & Beat Happening).

- To me it's a joy! April 13, 2007

Can't go wrong with Halo Benders

Want to hear something that you will never hear on FM radio? Here you go. Martsch and Johnson are a unique combination. Not as good as The Rebel's Not In, but that's hard to top. January 9, 2007

Okay, alright!

this is the perfect cd to listen to in june, with your shirt off, after a few beers, while cutting your cool indie rock friends hair and talking about how you have no money for toppings on the pizza. sound gross? yeah, it is. a great wispy pop cd that is hummable and amiable and will make you smile and want to start a band called the Malo Henders. June 4, 2000

the fantastic duo

what can I say! Built to spill crossed with beat happening. what else could any modern rock fan want? January 10, 1999

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