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MSNBC/Newsweek Grand Mal, clinically known as Generalized Tonic-Clonic, is a type of seizure characterized by a sudden cry, fall, and rigidity, followed by muscle jerks, shallow breathing, and possible loss of bladder or bowel control. It is also the name of a band paying homage to the yesteryear of glam rock. A little rough around the edges, but something you can almost get jiggy with, Grand Mal borrows classic elements of raw 1970's rock 'n roll and transforms it into something pleasing to the ears and derriere. The obvious rock heroes come to mind at the outset-Iggy Pop, T. Rex, KISS. Also, lurking below the surface are the band's previous and noteworthy Nineties collaborations with Dinosaur Jr., St. Johnny, the Dwarves and a current effort with Grasshopper of Mercury Rev. The lyrics are laden with decadent credos of the last three decades. In "Stay in Bed," Whitten complains "you can't save your money... your friends" and so recommends they "get drunk on cheap wine, let's stay in bed." In "Fun Fun Fun" he croons that "all I want is more medication, it's just like sex without the penetration." These guys are not imitating pure Seventies chic, nor are they attempting pure mockery. If anything, Grand Mal is holding on to the rock 'n roll dream. - SARAH WADE HUTMAN |
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