Robert Pollard

Two Boston Spaceships LPs, plus two Circus Devils LPs, plus one Cosmos LP and one solo record equals another busy 12 months for the former Mr. Guided by Voices. During 2008/2009, Dayton, OH's Robert Pollard is averaging about an album every eight weeks, and although this is certainly not new behaviour, the release of Elephant Jokes is proof that quantity has finally surpassed quality. Long-time producer and Circus Devil member Todd Tobias helps maintain Pollard's signature lo-fi sound and faux-waning delivery, allowing more focus on songwriting. But not a note on Elephant Jokes plays out-of-turn, which also suggests that nothing on the album is overly notable or original. Pollard seems resistant to branching out and incorporating any sort of idea or song approach he hasn't dabbled in before. This lack of adventure gives Elephant Jokes the feel of a b-side collection, but who needs outtakes when you have so many side-projects?