Vol. 1-Static Vs. The Strings Vol. 1

Centro-Matic's aptly named The Static Vs. the Strings, Vol. 1 collects rarities, outtakes, and B-sides dating back to 1996, contrasting their chugging, fuzzed-out power pop with melancholy, countrified ballads. What holds their divergent tendencies together is the group's somewhat shambling but confident approach and the appealingly scruffy production, which balances their muscular sound with their skillful melodies and harmonies. At their revved-up best, Centro-Matic is downright infectious and slightly quirky, particularly on songs like the sprightly ""Neighbors. Habits. Downtown,"" the driving ""D. Boon-Free (A Ninth-Grade Crime),"" and especially on The Static Vs. the Strings, Vol. 1's centerpiece, ""Turning Your Decisions