Late 2006 release and a total surprise arrival from a fave band from this
decade that all too few people are aware of. With soaring three-part
harmonies backing the sweet raspiness of Minibar frontman Simon Petty`s
vocals and emotional lyrics, the California sound is eloquently mixed with
classic British pop-rock influences. Think Del-Amitri, The Byrds `n Tom
Petty, The Jayhawks and Peter Bruntnell. Harmony-rich laid-back California
pop with a bit of Americana laid back groove in the mix. The rolling roots
groove that drives this English band is as mesmerizing as the waving visual
effect you see on a hot highway. The highway these cow-blokes have taken,
though, has led them to California, and there they reside. As does their
sound, which is a sensual and sorrowful blend of So-Cal country rock, filled
with soaring harmonies and lap-steel, and English pop. Full of glassily
plucked acoustic guitars crisp with rural, sun-baked charm and angelic
chorale harmonies that C,S & N themselves would be hard-pressed to match, it
is as much Hollywood Hills as it is Scotland Highlands. AMG said this
about their last one, Fly Below The Radar and it applies here: ""Much was
made of the group`s faux Americana feel in its initial press coverage, but
although this does have definite folk-rock, country, and West Coast harmony
influences, it`s not as simple as a British band trying to play American.
They play tuneful rock that has pop appeal without selling out, Simon
Petty`s breathy, slightly scratchy vocals projecting an inviting
world-weary, reflective warmth. Echoes of bands like R.E.M. and, reaching
further back, the Byrds and late-`60s/early-`70s British pop can be heard in
addition to the more contemporary alt-folk-rock factors.". Minibar is a
musical force whose selfless approach towards musical nirvana is
un-compromised. Extremely Highly Recommended!
 The Sight Of You - mp3
Can`t Call You A Cab - mp3
Hooked Up - mp3
Crime Scene Ribbon - mp3
Wide Open - mp3 | 
