Label: Play Out!
Country: Belgium
Release Date: 2008.04.21

LOTUK – features a highly impressive cast of guests, highlighting not only the broad spectrum of ARSENAL’s interests but also of those who inspired their music. John Garcia, formerly of the influential Kyuss, is guest on two tracks, Diggin’ A Hole and Not A Man, while Seattle luminary Shawn Smith (of Brad, Satchel and Pigeonhead) brings his funk-inspired lament to the album’s title track. Elsewhere Mike Ladd (Ninja Tune) delivers a furious tirade on Turn Me Loose and longstanding Brazilian collaborator Mario Vitalino Dos Santos brings a glorious South American vibe to proceedings on Egun and Selvagem. LOTUK is far more than vain wish-fulfillment, however: ARSENAL’s desire to uncover new and magical voices led them to enigmatic Nashville chanteuse Cortney Tidwell, who contributes to Who We Are, while Scott Masson from Chicago indie popsters Office kicks things off on Estupendo. And though the final track may feature another hero of theirs, former Husker Du-legend Grant Hart, the results remain far from predictable, Hart reading from a mysterious but heartrending letter to a former lover. Like the album itself, it’s unexpected, compelling and utterly original. (by playout)