Released
1998

Label
Maverick/Warner
Bros. Records

Reviewed by
Mike Ramirez

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Last Edit/Update
18 September, 1999

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Track Listing

1. I Can't See Why
2. Televsion
3. Possible
4. Fading

     Ever since the rise of trip-hop artists such as Portishead and Massive Attack, there has been a growing surge in the underground for acts with the same undertone. True, there are a lot of attempts at which most groups fail at, but there are some that shine through, especially with the help of major labels such as Maverick, who also is the home for the over-hyped Prodigy as well as Madonna who owns the label. Baxter falls somewhere in between of success and failure, regarding to musical content rather than sales figures.
    Baxter's sound is nothing new as of yet, but it does catch the ear of listeners who share the same liking for Love Spirals Downwards and Perfume Tree. The formula for this band is right on the nose, which explains their crystal-clear production and accessible rhythms. It might sound flawless, but Baxter's mistake is clearly heard with their recycled formulas that other bands have stamped on their work years ago. For the novice listener of trip-hop, Baxter might be the crown jewel in your disc player, but for the avid collector, it will just rest as another disc to slip on when you're bored with what's in your rotation.
    One thing that is both highly notable and credible for Baxter is their attempt for setting moods. This is the area in which they conquer, although I am not sure if they set out to or not. The opening track, "I Can't See Why," utilizes a string section over subtle bass, to create a slow tempo that crawls down your spine. The vocals could also be a candidate for the next Delerium album even. "Television" borrows the same characteristics from the previous track, but speeds it up a bit to somewhat conform the song so it can reach MTV status. As far as the remaining two tracks on the disc go, I wouldn't want to sound redundant in describing them as I just did with the previous ones.
    It's no surprise to me that Maverick hasn't hopped off of the cash cow yet, and it probably sees Baxter as another way to ride it for a little bit longer until the next trend rolls around. Baxter does serve as nice filler for a rainy day, but as far as originality and depth goes, you're better off seeking out a bathtub instead.