Born of guitarist/vocalist/songwriter Greg Ashley's puzzling musical vision, the Gris Gris hail from Oakland, Calif. but sound more like they come from Austin by way of the Land of Oz. Ashley's penchant for feedback-heavy tunes and almost carnivalesque melodies are reined in by one of the most inventive rock 'n' roll rhythm sections since Dave Mason and Roger Waters. The band's eponymous debut is laced with looped guitar, oddly-placed playful organ passages and vocals that would make Daniel Johnston proud. It's crazy … but crazy-good in that early model Velvet Underground sort of way.