Clown Sounds

It might be hard to believe, but San Pedro’s Todd Congelliere has been actively making music for over a quarter century. In that time, Todd—or one of the many bands he plays with, including F.Y.P, Toys That Kill, the The Underground Railroad To Candyland and Stoned At Heart—has released nearly one record a year, sometimes more. Now Todd’s newest project Clown Sounds—also the title of his 2010 solo album Clown Sounds—have released the full-length Preacher Maker. For anyone already a fan of Todd’s music, the album is a stellar addition to a nearly flawless catalog of work. For those unfamiliar, this record is a good place to dive in. With two drummers (Jimmy Felix, Trevor Rounseville), three guitar players (Jacob Gaxiola, Isaac Thotz, Todd C), and a bassist (Chachi) drawn from URTC, The Arrivals and a deep pool of Pedro’s powerhouse musicians, it might seem that Clown Sounds could come off indulgent and excessive, but rest assured—the band’s tone is colossal but potent and clean. The record is brimming with the hard-driving, poppy melodic punk that’s defined Todd’s projects over the years. It’s more a natural continuation of the sounds the road To Candyland was exploring, rather than the more aggressive Toys That Kill material. More than anything, Preacher Maker sounds fresh, passionate, and exciting. The songs,even when they’re dealing with darker themes,are vibrant and captivating, and add even more to Todd’s already impressive body of songwriting. -Simon Weedn/LA Record