DISCS DATA AUSTIN TATIOUS

IXNA (45) DUMB RECORDS

Dumb reemerges from the woodwork. You remember Dumb; various Novak 45's, the Survivors, Bob, and the Other Music gamelan on a sublabel, Nth Degree. Nothing personal, Novak, but this disc should put Dumb on the map for good. It features the multitudinous talents of Marina La Palma and Jay Cloidt: two folks who are bored stiff with the English language. We are treated to a rare exposition of the virtues of Esperanto (otherwise known as, "What if they made a language and nobody spoke"). On the flip side they defy decoding entirely with "Counterfeit Language." Don't worry -- a lyric sheet is provided for those unfortunate souls compelled to find the "deep meaning," which is also quite useful in crossing up drunks at parties. Musically, the A side, "Mi Ni Parolas," is quite the three-ring circus, encompassing a mutated surf beat, phunky bass, phased bongos, and, without warning, a flock of crazed Chuck Berry tape loops attack ruthlessly, then fall back into place behind the distinctive voice of Ms. La Palma. Flipside "Ixna Portal Exo" is appropriate, as it sounds like what one would expect after looking at the cover, so everybody be happy, much happy. p. 14