Album Notes

MATAHARI SETS AN IMPRESSIVE PACE OUT OF THE MODERN ROCK GATES

Most bands regard recording their music as a reasonable goal, something to look forward to after many years of performing and finding their groove. Boston-based MataHari is not quite like these other bands. An energetic modern rock group with the occasional dark or techno feel, the group's four members had hardly begun to know one another when they pooled their collective writing and performing talents to put out their first record. Now, together for just over a year, MataHari is releasing their debut CD Shrine of Couterfeits to the Boston music market, as well as to any fans from coast to coast looking to absorb their unique brand of hard-edged modern rock. With a style that incorporates the latest trends in rock and roll, a bit of punk, and other choice formats that spice up the mix, MataHari is poised to establish themselves as a dominant newcomer not only to the New England music scene, but the rest of the country's, as well.

Opening with the free-feeling musical taunt Spare Me, MataHari's album gives listeners a glimpse of the spirited attitude that provides the theme for the CD. Continuing with Mental Drive By, the record pushes that attitude to a higher pinnacle, laying into the track with an steady groove and an upbeat tempo, while maintaining the brazen feel that typifies MataHari's music. With a style reminiscent of pop/punk pioneers No Doubt, MataHari takes the genre and adds their own spin, giving the format a harder edge and a more intriguing hook in both the lyrics and the musical "road maps" of the pieces. Seeming to draw influence from modern rock trendsetters Garbage, as well, MataHari brings a kind of mysterious overlaying feel to the album that seems to tie every song together, regardless of their styles. The sweeping waves of Why transition easily into the more beat-driven guitar riffs of It's Over Now to give the album a real sense of accomplished unity.

MataHari was originally formed in April of 2003, when guitarist Shaun Michaud met European singer and front figure Ivona, immediately finding that they had the same musical goals and tastes. After recruiting bassist Frank and drummer Chris, the group set out to create and produce a full-length album, and prepared to take the music industry by storm. With riveting stage performances and unbelievable chemistry to match the unity of the album, MataHari already has all the makings of a band shooting to the top - and all inside of a year.

MataHari's new album is the perfect breakout tool for a neophyte group like this quartet from Boston. With solid grooves and an unfaltering musical direction, the CD proves early that MataHari has what it takes to become one of the next bands to hit it big o the modern rock music scene. The debut from MataHari, easily finding a place among the established groups of the genre, not only serves well as a takeoff platform for the band, but a great addition to any rock fan's music collection, as well.

MataHari's self-titled debut album is currently available on their website (www.mataharirocks.com) or at www.broadjam.com/matahari. To schedule an interview with MataHari, please contact Rainmaker PR.