Sixto - Sixto

Formed out of the ashes of the brilliant Dis- (see my post on them here) in 1997, singer/guitarist Chris Fuller formed Sixto with former Travis members Matt Scholl and Craig Hutler along with Chris Manfrin who spent time in Seam. The band released one full-length album in 2001 that was Self-Titled on the Milwaukee based Star Star Stereo label before eventually disbanding not long afterward.

Although their existence was brief, their one album is worth tracking down or picking up if you run across it. There are definitely some compelling influences that work with each other successfully in a way I wouldn’t have originally thought until hearing it, combining the styling of early 80’s post-punk/no wave with the more bombast approach of arena rock. Not necessarily the most enticing thing on paper maybe, but Sixto pulls it off quite nicely. Fuller’s near emotionless vocals are a perfect fit for the type of post-punk sound that dominates the record. One of the interesting aspects of it though is that while Fuller’s voice lends itself to the cold and monotonous style that comes with the genres territory, it’s ultimately the dual guitar work that gives it an unexpected liveliness and almost mathy quality. The disc is definitely worth listening to for anyone that were fans of any of the members’ previous bands, if anything it’s an interesting take on a couple different styles of music.

Sixto – The Asphalt Audience [MP3]
Sixto – The Naughty Mime [MP3]

For anyone looking to pick up Sixto’s self-titled album there are still multiple used copies available on Amazon for a pretty good price. Definitely grab a copy if you like the tunes posted above.