Crooks on Tape are a devilishly clever trio that delivers a madcap fusion of far out synth experiments with improvisational rhythmic grooves. Listening to their latest in sequence, Fingerprint, is at first a maddening experience, since there’s so much creativity lurking within their psych-pop framework. But that’s not to say that the direction this album takes is unexpected, especially once you learn that the members behind the project are associated with equally unconventional acts like Enon, Vertical Scratchers, and acclaimed nineties cult act Brainiac. The band will be confounding their audience with their fascinating new record at Bootleg Bar next Friday, January 17th. – Juan Rodríguez
