When the name Phantom Planet is mentioned, the response is often, “oh, the band with that actor from ‘Rushmore’.” Up until now, Jason Schwartzman, the actor and drummer, was their best selling point. But after the release of their self-titled album earlier this month, Phantom Planet shouldn’t have to resort to using Schwartzman’s name to gain some recognition. That’s a great thing, since Schwartzman isn’t even with the band any more.

The album can be best described with the word “energy.” It’s hard listening to it sitting down; and try not to air guitar. You can’t. The garage band-sounding tunes even include an electronic and melodramatic twist on “Big Brat.”

The only thing not overly energized is singer Alexander Greenwald? sometimes. His voice is as laid back as one can possibly get when singing behind such a vigorous band, on songs like “The Happy Ending” and “1st Things 1st.” Yet he screams, he yells, he sings off-tune, and does everything to convince you he’s in no way calm on other tracks like “Badd Business” and “Jabberjaw.” All this leads to a much appreciated variety.

The Schwartzman reign may have ended, but Phantom Planet have never sounded so resilient.

4*
Epic
Release Date: January 6, 2004

Check out the “Big Brat” music video:
Windows Media
Real Audio

…and a live performance:
Windows Media
Real Audio






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