*** Scrawl

NATURE FILM

(Elektra)

welve years ago, Marcy Mays and Sue Harshe founded Scrawl in Columbus, Ohio, where they survived on indies until Elektra finally grabbed them in 1996, releasing the terrific Travel On, Rider that year. Drummer Dana Marshall replaced Carolyn O'Leary in 1992, so you can't blame the trio for revisiting out-of-print, pre-Marshall favorites ("Charles," a rewrite of Kiss's "Beth," the world-weary, anthemic "Clock Song," the restless "Standing Around," and three others) on their second Elektra disc, Nature Film. Appropriating John Lydon's "Public Image" (key lyrics: "I will not be treated as property" and "It's not the same as when I began, it's not a game") is a genius move -- Mays delivers the song with the grit and determination of a veteran of professional and personal wars.

The newer work is also top-notch. Scrawl's unflinching glimpses into relationship dynamics are backed by stalwart musicianship that builds tension by juxtaposing delicacy with raw power. Buzzing guitars and loping bass meet tender keyboard nuances to yield unpretentious, deeply personal rock. As much as you'll hear about their perseverance and survivor status, this band haven't been around so long merely by force of will. Scrawl still exist because they make great music.

-- Mark Woodlief