On the Ones and Threes

A decade went by without so much as a peep from Versus, and the underrated indie rockers' 2000 album seemed to be exactly what the title suggested: a last Hurrah. Sad for many, since this was a highly influential band of the `90s seemingly doomed to relative obscurity. Fortunately, though, in 2010, the original lineup reunited after amends were made between the Baluyut brothers Edward and Richard, who hadn't played together since 1996's Secret Swingers. Even more surprising than the long-delayed reunion, is how little the band has changed considering the amount of time that has passed. As `90s alt-rock finds a resurgence, it's a perfectly timed return. Album standouts "Nu Skin," "Gone to Earth," and "Erstwhile" show off the sweet guy/girl interplay and clever harmonies between Richard Baluyut and Fontaine Toups, as well as the heavy dynamic shifts between mellow pop and raw guitar grunge. Even in the heavier moments, the album plays with a cool, unruffled composure that seems more easygoing than prior outings, making for a comfortable, welcome return. ~ Jason Lymangrover