The first lyrics to grab my attention during a first listen to Lamchop’s new album Damaged were from the beautiful, sprawling first track, Paperback Bible:

i have always thought

That handguns were made for shooting people

Rather than for sport

Why not use a rifle in most other applications?

You might find a rifle or a musket

But you’ll never hear a pistol

There may always be Someone looking for or finding some

Guess I’d like to sell

A good used paperbacked living bible

They’re a perfect example of how Kurt Wagner’s lyrics can seem so surreal out of context but, when paired with his vocals and arrangemments, become simply sublime.

It sounds like Andy Whitman’s spent more time with the album than I’ve yet had a chance to. I hope I enjoy it as much as he clearly does. I think I will.

Tags: lambchop, damaged