After what seems like hundreds of thousands of releases, Man...or Astro-Man come through loud and clear. Don't get me wrong; they've recorded some classic records, but 1000X, while like most other stuff you've heard by them, is really where a potential fan should start.

See, unlike some other Man... or Astro-Man records, it doesn't drone on forever in some relentless fury forcing its surf-rock madness down your throat. You're provided instead with a small dose (six songs) of excellent material. Plus, there's a perfect blend of vocal and instrumental music. It's simply difficult to get bored with 1000X. And the neat packaging doesn't hurt, either.

Oh, one more thing. There are some bands that always sound better on vinyl than on CD. Man... or Astro-Man is one of them. Just so you know.

-Ryan Schreiber