(Weapons of Mass Compassion, 323 NW 6th) Blending confusing sounds as if sharing one collective third eyeball, Smegma wrangles warbly and mysterious record loops, saxophone-imitating-dental-dam solos, maniacal samples, jazzy drum and cymbal splashes, and psychedelic guitar. Meandering through atmospherics that occasionally burst into freak-out surf rock, Smegma never stops creating, evolving, and changing. (More than 60 releases under their belt—averaging two per year—make them one of the most prolific and oldest bands in Portland.) Showing no signs of slowing down or gaining popularity, their sonic brilliance will continue to have me believe that Smegma is the best Portland band that has ever existed. JAMES SQUEAKY