Slap in the Face

Henry Ate

Released on 7/15/96 by Sheer Sound
Main artists: Henry Ate
Genre: Pop

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Henry Ate was largely a showcase for the talents of lead singer Karma-Ann Swanepoel, and Slap in the Face certainly doesn't disappoint from that perspective. Swanepoel's vocals and songwriting are what make this band so distinctive. Her singing sits somewhere between Tanya Donnelly and the Cranberries' Dolores O'Riordan -- a mix that is bound to grate on some listeners, but one that is ultimately worth the effort. The songs on Slap in the Face are largely folk, although the bands' pop sensibilities ensure that the album is full of glorious melodies and not just jangly guitars. The superb harmonies of "Pandora's Child" and the pop of "Hey Mister" make these two of the best tracks on the disc. Elsewhere, Henry Ate is at their best when they don't stray too far from the formula. When they head more into rock territory, they seem to lose their way on occasion, as on "Mother Superior" and the silly "Fashionably Large." Fortunately, they manage to redeem themselves through "Henry" and "Just." Overall, Slap in the Face shows a young band who were beginning to demonstrate their considerable talents.
© Jonathan Lewis /TiVo

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Slap in the Face

Henry Ate

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