The Boxing Lesson's Wild Streaks and Windy Days delivers Floydian hook

After five years and three teasingly short EP's, Austin's The Boxing Lesson finally delivers their first full-length album, Wild Streaks and Windy Days.

The album is a combination of moving psychedelic lyrics, punctuated by droning shoe-gazer riffs. A perfect example is the haunting, "Dark Side of the Moog," where the synthesizers and guitar duet harmonically, characterizing a new blend of music best described as "rock-gazer". Other songs such as "Hopscotch & Sodapop" and "Freedom" allow for refreshing breathers in between the album's darker tones.

This album, produced by Tim Gerron (Henry Rollins, Joe Strummer), showcases the trio's musical and songwriting abilities. Vocalist/Guitarist Paul Waclawsky's voice ranges to portray the emotion in his lyrics, giving The Boxing Lesson their distinct sound. Jaylinn Davidson's double-duty of providing the complimentary bass-line and synthesizers contrasts Waclawsky's droning guitar nicely. Drummer Jake Mitchell adds his flavor to help define the mood of each song.

The best part about this band is that they know how to intensify the music at a live show. The chemistry of the members and their eccentric personalities adds to the enjoyment of their set. To really experience The Boxing Lesson, you have to see them on stage. Luckily for us, there are many opportunities to catch them around town.

With the album length a little over an hour, this album will require a very comfortable chair or car seat. If you are interested in a 30-second microwavable meal, this album is not for you. But if a sit-down cuisine, complete with appetizers and dessert appeals to you, then Wild Streaks and Windy Days will satisfy your cravings.

The CD release show will be on Feb. 28 at The Parish. The album will be available at Waterloo, End of an Ear, Cheapo's and CD Baby.

Editor's note: Accent contributing writer Sarah Vasquez is in the fifth year of running the website www.somanybands.net, which features interviews and reviews of local musicians.