Classic

This is by far the Violets' finest album. Also, some may be interested in knowing that the current Smashing Pumpkins guitarist, Jeff Schroeder, contributed a significant amount of epic guitar work to this. Stand out tracks are "Arabic Tremolo Radio", "Blind", "Fever", "Low", and "Goldmine".

One of the best

Definitely the Violet's best. In fact one of the best albums I own. Sonicly engaging. Emotionally moving. Lyrically challenging. If you like bands like Siamese Dream-era Smashing Pumpkins, Bends-era Radiohead or Sigur Ros, you'll love this. Expertly produced. It's a gem. is awesome. From the toms and sleighbells of "Crush" to the soothing crunch of "Arabic Tremelo Radio" to the shimmer and shine of "Blind" and "Underwater" this album radiates with goodness. Glad they posted it, cause it's been out-of-print for years.

A strong, if slightly dated album

This isn't the Violet Burning's greatest album, but it comes close. Songs like "Crush", "Arabic Tremolo Radio", and "Low" come at you like an emotional (and sonic) tidal wave. Pritzl sometimes sounds like the Smashing Pumpkins Billy Corgan, but the band definitely has its own sound. An interesting mix of Grunge and Shoegazer rock, this album is not to be missed! Now if only they'd put up "Demonstrates Plastic & Elastic" and "I Am a Stranger in This Place".

On this, their third full-length and most widely distributed domestic release, Violet Burning expanded their sound to an almost epic alternative scope with sweeping soundscapes and intensely personal lyrics. Joining band leader, guitarist/vocalist/songwriter Michael Pritzl on this 1996 self-titled Domo Records release are guitarist Jef Schroeder, drummers Jeremy Wood and Lonny Tubbs, and bassist Jason Pickersgill. The most common comparisons of Smashing Pumpkins and Radiohead are certainly in order, as Violet Burning reaches for a dramatic, expansive pitch throughout its 12-song tracklist. Besides the more obvious influences, strains of the Flaming Lips and even Neil Young can be heard, especially on Pritzl’s vocal work in track like “Arabic Tremolo Radio” and “Blind.” The sublime aching for spiritual release is quite palpable on these tracks and other standouts like the live favorite “Low” and the expansive “Waiting.” Superior to previous releases, Violet Burning represents an leap in aural and musical abilities for Pritzl and company. – Jason Anderson