Category Archives: Albums

Albums

The Jackets — “Pie In The Sky”/ “Misery Of Man” 7”

The Jackets

“Pie In The Sky”/ “Misery Of Man” 7”

Wild Noise Records

Street: 03/01/2023

Kicking off the year 2023 The Jackets have a released a monster of a single. The “Pie in the Sky”/ “Misery Of Man 7” is a testament as to why this group leads the pack when it comes to rock n’ roll. This record perfectly builds off the successes of The Jackets previous two records and comes out via their new label Wild Noise Records. Those paying attention are aware The Jackets are one the most dynamic bands around. Their blistering garage punk is second to none.  It’s a mix of freakbeat with mod influenced garage punk tinged psychedelia. This approach is refreshing and not tamed by restrained mediocrity. Rather this is the music that seems to effortlessly breath of life rock n’ roll music.

Since this single’s arrival it has found a near permanent home on my turntable. It has been playing nearly nonstop with the volume level in the red—I’m sure much to the joy of my neighbors. The A side’s “Pie In The Sky” boasts certain and captivating brilliance.  Theme wise “Pie In The Sky” invokes a nod toward the wandering nature of the Damned’s “Stranger of the Town.’ That said there is a clear distinction with The Jackets fuzz heavy psychedelia as apposed to the former’s goth infused punk.  

Furthermore, the instrumental quality for “Pie In The Sky” shows of a certain maturity in style while not sacrificing The Jackets definitive edge. This tracks captures a certain playful and electrifying nature. Played loud enough and under the right influences it ought to make one move recklessly about. So, boost your receivers and properly experience “Pie In The Sky.”

“Misery Of Man” makes for a perfect follow up to “Pie In The Sky.” This song is wrapped in a fuzz driven blanket. Lyrically, this track warns of the different maddening stages of falling into love. To do this it celebrates a moody and haunting provocativeness. This beautifully coincides with a pounding backbeat propping up an enveloping psychedelic theme. Thus giving sound to the absorbing turbulence of this passion driven emotion.

If there was a record meant to show the importance of rock n’ roll, this single is it. The Jackets have long been delivering solid and exciting material. This record continues their legacy by ferociously blending fuzzed out freakbeat with the defiance of proto-punk sensibilities.  It’s music that is vibrant, sincere and above all relevant. If this is a preamble to more material coming out soon, I am ready for it. This is the top shelf stuff and is needed. Now, waste no more time and pick this up!

For more about The Jackets and Wild Noise Records click here!

Albums

QWAM — Little Bliss

QWAM

Little Bliss

Reta Records

05/20/2022

QWAM are a four piece from Brooklyn. They are Matt Keim, Felicia Lobo, Eddie Kuspiel and Rachel Zisette. Having already quite the discography, QWAM have released the Little Bliss single via Reta Records. It’s clear that QWAM  are rooted in a sound melding indie-glam tendencies with pop punk sensibilities. “IDC”  blends of infectious indie garage sound with power pop meets punk attitude. While the title track “Little Bliss” offers a sound blending on a 90’s grunge meets a contemporary pop punk style.

The A-side’s “IDC” is my favorite track on this single. It’s charming lyrics combine with engaging pop-centric punk. It shouldn’t be hard to observe that “IDC” spelt out stands for “I don’t care.” This track comes across as deliciously nihilistic that comments on feeling overpowered with life as we know it.  The theme blasts into the state of accepting impending doom by suggesting drinking tea while watching the world burn. This highlighted with a catchy chorus. By playing this loud one can enlighten the apocalypse with sunshine filled apathy.  

 “Little Bliss” on the other hand has a different approach. This track builds on calm and collected pop-punk harmony’s. Then bursts with a defining attitude but with an indie meets grungy glam style. This is particularly demonstrated toward the latter half. At this point in the song everyone in the band sings along emphasizing an feeling of being of being overwhelmed. In the end, it’s a superb mix of anxsty indie-induced punk that’s oddly fulfilling.

The “Little Bliss” single is a fun listen. This is music that seems to bare a reflection of the overwhelming anxiety of today’s word. It’s mostly seen in”IDC” but is also represented in “Little Bliss.” Although, it is “IDC” that garners my attention. It’s the kind of agitated yet hopeless song to pogo about with reckless abandon. “IDC” harkens on a sound describing the modern antagonism of punk twisting with pop. That said, this is a record that ought to be spun. Give it a listen.

For more about QWAM check out their Bandcamp or via Reta Records”!

Albums

Newtown Neurotics — Cognitive Dissidents

Newtown Neurotics

Cognitive Dissidents

Cadiz Music

Street: 10/21/2022  

For over 40 years Newtown Neurotics have sounded the alarm against the perils of political and social annihilation. They have been brilliantly demonstrating this through an uncompromising punk lead ethos. The artists behind this work toward revolution are Steve Drewett, Simon Lomond and Adam Smith.  The result of their efforts is music used as a tool to inform, agitate and organize against the trapping of complacency.  Their new album Cognitive Dissidents builds upon this method. It’s eight tracks seek to rail against submission to ignorance and in turn rally against the civilizational decay of our time.

The opening track “Climate Emergency” captures the sense of urgency celebrated in Newtown Neurotics’ material. It’s a song demanding it’s listener pay attention to the overwhelming environmental crisis facing today’s world. To do this, Newtown Neurotics unapologetically highlight the severity coming from an onslaught of climate breakdown. True, “Climate Emergency” betrays a seriousness and somber tone, but this tune is catchy.

In “Take Your Dirty Hands Off Our Town” Newtown Neurotics profess nostalgic sentiments for their hometown of Harlow, Essex. This song serenades the origins of Harlow New Town after World War Two while seeking to place present importance on the towns community. In this, vocalist Drewett decries the Tory robbing of Harlow’s civic infrastructure and promise. However, he also celebrates his upbringing along with the changes he’s observed over the years. This is drawn from examples of his youth like organizing bands and standing against the National Front. It’s obvious that this is a tune that clearly hits home for Drewett ,and I imagine anyone living in Harlow.

“Hope” is a song rallying the banner of resistance against the idea of impending doom. This track is easily a favorite of mine.  Newtown Neurotics’ “Hope” urges rising together to face today’s uncertainties.  Many of the topics found in Cognitive Dissidents are about candidly singing about today’s modern challenges. “Hope” manages to offer a way forward and more importantly the potential for a way to live. This is via an emphasis of the importance on hope through connection through love and cooperation in our respective communities. It’s refreshing song against a climate of prevailing despair. Thus, this one ought to considered along other punk lead anthems like The Clash’s “London Calling” or Sham 69’s “If The Kids Are United.”

“Dumb” is another favorite on Cognitive Dissidents. This track takes a satirical look at the absurd nature of conspiracy nuts. “Dumb” is sung from the perspective of a wearer of a right-wing tin foil hat. Drewett highlights the themes that define the conspiracy theorists. This includes finding community in the fringe, dismissal of experts and acceptance of a flat earth. Ever clever, Newtown Neurotics poke fun at these dangerous nutters while listing the importance of their emerging threat to sane discourse and living.

Overall, Cognitive Dissidents is a solid album. It’s Newtown Neurotics first album in about 34 years and neatly picks up where they left off in 1988. Not surprisingly, this album is a bit more mature in style and sound. Drewet’s song writing continues with the pressing anger and creative energy of punk.

In Cognitive Dissidents Newtown Neurotics seek to bring sense to this turbulent world and tell it like it is. It’s a sober, straight forward call to action. This is an approach that makes them consistent and among my favorite groups. To be fair, the world’s still chaotic, and maybe even more so than it was in 1988. That said, Newtown Neurotics are here to poignantly light the way. Now pick this up. It’s relevant and must to be played.

For more about Newtown Neurotics, visit them here.

Albums

The Speedways — Talk of the Town

The Speedways

Talk of the Town

Snap/Hurrah Musica/Beluga

Street: 11/26/2022

Since 2018, The Speedways have blazed a trail of hopeless romanticism across the power pop landscape. While initially started as Matthew Julian’s one-off project, The Speedways tuned into a superb collaborative effort between the talents Julian, Adrian Alfonso, Mauro Venegas and Kris Hood. In their four years, the Speedways have honed their craft. They boast a one-of-a-kind authority on longing and heartbreak. Their new record Talk of the Town brilliantly continues this trend. This is by celebrating a spirit of ’79 punky power pop persuasion and adding the infectious elements of 1980’s new wave.

The first track from Talk of the Town “Dead from the Heart Down” is well in line with this philosophy. It kicks off with a sound of a beating heart and then builds upon signature power pop style. The result is being catchy and leading on with consistent grooves. Think of it along the lines of Protex twisting along with the Shivvers and Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers. 

In a similar vein are “Secrets Secrets” and “Kiss Me Goodbye.” Both of these songs are upbeat and have a memorable chorus’. In contrast tracks like “A Drop in the Ocean” and “Taken” celebrate a shy and heartfelt approach. Despite being about heartbreak these latter two end on a feel-good note that tugs at the feels.

My favorite two tracks on this record are “Shoulda Known.” and the title song “Talk of the Town.” “Shoulda Known” has a similar quality found on The Speedways debut record Just Another Regular Summer. this track is bright with a strong back beat. “Shoulda Known” is a song about being caught off guard by a romantic situation go awry. It captures a sound beckoning nostalgia for ’77 punk infused power pop along the lines of The Boys or The Outcasts. If one has ever been blindsided by the obvious pitfalls of love, then this is power pop for you.

“Talk of the Town” is a cool, simple and collected track. This song portrays an edge by blending new wave sensibilities with an early ‘80s retro power pop. It’s upbeat and got a solid build up to an easy-to-follow chorus. I wouldn’t be surprised if “Talk of the Town” found itself as a theme song for a cheesy Warriors-like b-film. Play this one loud and often.

The Speedways never disappoint. Each record they put out displays a continuing maturity in sound. They don’t betray their origins and they keep things interesting. The end result being songs professing their signature take on staring off at the stars in search of long-lost love. Talk Of The Town is a keen demonstration as to why The Speedways are the leaders of this power pop revival. This band is tight and they continue to give the romantic at heart relevant songs about heartbreak and teenage kicks. To not consider Talk of the Town would be error is cognitive processing.  Now, go forth and pick up this record.

For more about the Speedways check out my interview with them here!

You can also pre-order Talk of the Town here thespeedways.bigcartel.com

Albums

The Mellons — Introducing…The Mellons

The Mellons

Introducing…The Mellons

Earth Libraries

Street: 10/21/2022

The Mellons are a group that manages to exude effortless brilliance. Not surprising then since they draw from the talents of Andrew Colin Beck, Ian Francis, Denny Fuller and Rob Jepson. Their debut record Introducing…The Mellons boasts a harmonic pop masterpiece that nods toward an idea of baroque rock for the 21st century. It’s clearly a work that is inspired by those who appreciate the music of The Monkees or The Zombies, while also tirelessly binging on the sensibilities of The Beach Boy’s Pet Sounds and The Beatles Sgt Pepper Lonely Hearts Club Band.

A great distinction for Introducing…The Mellons is this groups wall of sound approach.  The recording is clean but overwhelms with a encompassing vibrancy. The result is an album starts strong and doesn’t let it’s listener lapse into mediocrity. Rather Introducing…The Mellons remains engaging with a seemingly endless charm.  This is evident once the needle drops onto the opening track “Introducing…The Mellons” and then leads into “So Much To Say.” The latter track immediately captivates with an orchestral poptastic sound. “So Much To Say” is the kind of longing love song that is warm and easy to digest.

In contrast “Devils Advocate” comes across as a familiar tone found in “She’s Not There” by The Zombies. It’s mellow and groovy. Admittingly, this song doesn’t quite have the same moody tendency. However, “Devils Advocate” stands out by maintaining a smooth and uplifting sound. This is also true for the following track “It’s Just a Phase.”

Perhaps my favorite track on Introducing…The Mellons is “Salad Made of Butterflies.” This is the first track on the B-side and has a largely unique place on this record. For the most the material on Introducing…The Mellons floats along pop sentiments. “Salad Made of Butterflies”, on the other hand, captures the provocative nature of subdued paisley themed psychedelia. For its simplicity, this song is largely an instrumental that under the right influences service to twist and turn the mind. In doing so, this song builds up while leading the listener along to an out of sight abstract poem read by Jerry Meyer (who sounds very much like Ian Mcshane).  It’d do well as a single to be added to the que for a 21st century modernist night. Think of it as being alongside Child of Panoptes “Walk With Me” or The Creation Factory’s “You Got It.”

The next track “Strawberry Girl” offers a notable change in gears. This song comes across as playful and sweet. “Marmalade” brings this charm forward but with an enveloping sound. It’s a song that entices with a broad range. Furthermore “Marmalade” invokes a kind of nostalgia with the fullness of The Beatles Yellow Submarine. A similar notion can be suggested with “Hello, Sun.” As this track is bright and beautifully celebrates The Mellons overwhelming effect of vibrant music.

Introducing……The Mellons is truly a work of art.  If you needed an album to evoke feelings of optimistic tendencies then this is the record to be considered for your listening pleasure. Within its grooves are a combination of indie and pop that dabs with psychedelia. This music draws obvious influences from the iconic sunshine-tinged essence of the 1960s. That said, The Mellons aren’t reinventing the wheel. Instead they seek to bring the music forward while not betraying their influences. In this respect they do this quite well and have added a revived interest in baroque pop. So, go out and give Introducing…The Mellons a twirl on your turntable. You’ll be glad you did.

Albums

Slaughter and the Dogs — IL Tradimento Silenzioso (The Silent Betrayal)

Slaughter and the Dogs

IL Tradimento Silenzioso (The Silent Betrayal)

Spaghetty Town Records

Street: 08/10/2022

Slaughter and the Dogs are one of the original forefathers of punk. Since 1975 they have blended boot boy glam and the defiant attitude of punk rock with particular brilliance. Their latest album IL Tradimento Silenzioso (The Silent Betrayal) is a testament to this philosophy. Within its grooves are tunes that demand a listen and may even find themselves among the mantle that holds up their previous material. Albeit this record carries on with a more mature sound, however it still captures the essence that makes Slaughter and the Dogs great.

This record kicks off with strong with the boot boy football anthem in “Manchester Boys.” If one needed a track to blast loud while sporting the colors of Manchester City or Manchester United, then this one is perfect. This song is fun for its rowdy glam punk style coupled with an uplifting and easy-to-follow chorus.  Mind you under the right influences singing along to “Manchester Boys” will no doubt make you some friends—providing you are sporting the right colors.

Other tracks like “Silent Cities” carry a more somber, reflective sound. This one is still well in the same vein of unabashed punk. Most notably as it’s a song pushing the envelope of questioning authority and challenging complacency. In comparison songs like “Good Times Are Coming Here Today” is upbeat and rocking. It’s a feel good number that leaves it’s listener resonating in a good place.

Perhaps my favorite song on IL Tradimento Silenzioso (The Silent Betrayal) is “The Ok Man.” Leading in with a stomping beat, this song draws from the perspective of someone who finds themselves in the thorough of casual chit chat at the pub or cafe. Admittingly, it’s not quite in line with the minimalism found in traditional punk tunes. Rather, this tune is uniquely engaging as it is more developed. It’s a play on a ballad with a folk-like tune. This is brilliantly weaved together via a superior lyrical quality courtesy of Wayne Barret McGrath. Think of it as having a similar quality that can be found with a Joe Strummer and Mescalero’s or Johnny Cash approach.  “The Ok Man” is well worth putting on repeat.

The b-side of this record has some tracks that stand out as well. “Five Star British Hotel” is one of the. The theme comments on the boring life of a hotel employee only wanting the stability of a simple life. This song starts off with the recording of “Oh Britannia” and launches into a uptempo tune complete with a keen punk induced critical self awareness. In comparison fellow tracks like “Cocaine Smile” harkens on Slaughter and the Dogs punk roots. In the same vein is “Hooligan Blues.” This is done by playing up on the styles fast and raucous.

Overall IL Tradimento Silenzioso (The Silent Betrayal) captures an essence of charm that only Slaughter and the Dogs could offer. This record blends styles ranging from their glam punk sensibilities to punk styles ebbing with a more reflective tone. If one has appreciated their previous material, then the growth that this record boasts suggest it might be well worth a listen. After all, they have remained consistent with this infectious sound. So, go forth and procure a copy. This is a record that ought to be heard.

For more visit https://www.spaghettytown.com/

Albums

Natalie Sweet & Brad Marino — Second Time/Over My Head

Natalie Sweet & Brad Marino

 Second Time/Over My Head

Reta Records

Street: 08/26/2022

Natalie Sweet and Brad Marino are two of today’s power pop A-listers. Sweet previously fronted The Shanghais and Control Freaks. While Marino founded and fronted The Connection, and has material out with Rydells and Tommy and The Rockets. Not to mention they both have extensive solo projects that ought to be  heard. The Second Time/ Over My Head 7” is a treat as it is a east coast-to- west coast collaboration. Together they have produced a high energy infectious rock n’ roll.  Despite only being two tracks, it’s the kind of punk meeting pop that hooks on and doesn’t let go.

Both tracks share a kind of duet approach. However, “Second Time” prominently boasts Sweets singing. Lyrically, it’s a song laments the trappings of falling in love again with the same person. In true form, “Second Time” celebrates the nature of of punk blending with power pop. Think of this track as a melding of the Ramones speed meeting the Buzzcocks harmonies .  It’s fast and easy to sing along with. Be sure to turn it up.

“Over My Head” is sung from the perspectives of both Sweet and Marino. This track tells the tale of the slippery slope from a casual relationship transitioning with a partner wanting something more. Between the two of them it’s a fun back and forth. From Marino’s point of view, he sings about his anxiety as things get more serious than intended with the partner to be. In contrast, Sweet character seeks something more and is out to get it.

Overall “Over My Head” is a charming listen. This is the track cementing this duos ability to produce a tune together that is tight and catchy. Listening to this one would almost wonder if they have collaborated before.

The Second Time/Over My Head 7” is a record that draws on both Sweets and Marino’s talents for fast paced lovers lost rock n’ roll with solid hooks. Furthermore, this also demonstrates their seemingly natural ability to work together.  Like their other material this 7” packs a punky power pop punch. Although short and sweet, this is record is addicting to hear. So, drop the needle on this single and dig it.

For more, check out Reta Records Bandcamp!

Albums

The Sorels — Love Your Rock N’ Roll EP

The Sorels

 Love Your Rock N’ Roll EP

Reta Records

Street: 09/02/2022

The Sorels hail from Winnipeg, Canada. They are Jo Jo Rodriguez (vox, bass) , Jennifer Alexander (guitar) and Jill Lynott (drums, vox). Together they have released their third EP via Reta Records and it is aptly titled Love Your Rock N’ Roll. It’s very much a love letter for the sentimentality of the eternal days of old celebrating rock n’ roll excellence. Within these grooves is a style mending aspects of 1960’s girl groups, glam punk but with the infectious nature of power pop. It rips and ought to be heard.

Each track has it’s own significance and charm. The title song “Love Your Rock N’ Roll” kicks this record off superbly. It blends up-tempo power pop with sprinklings of glam. When the needle hits this one, turn the dial until your sound system registers red hot. Played under the right inhibitions, this ditty will have you moving and grooving.

In contrast “The Jerk” captures the moody nostalgic sensations of early ‘60s girl groups. Admittingly, the Larks made the Jerk a craze in 1964. However, The Sorels lament a longing for the fabled dance and in their homage have brought it new life. “The Jerk” furthermore highlights this yearning by mention of other dances like the Twist, Mashed Potato or Wah Wah-Watusi. This is by invoking the musical spirits of The Shangri-La’s and The Ronettes.

The B-side of this EP continues with the gold. “Make Me Party” perfectly captures the catchiness of the glam rock essence found in 1972. That said, it certainly has a modern flair that’s in line with Giuda’s “Get It Over.” With this track it’s clear The Sorels don’t hold back, are force to be reckoned with. Play this one loud at the next glamracket for it’s a stomping banger.

“Another School Day” is a great track to wrap this EP up with. While it stands on its own, it ends things on a high note. The previous song demonstrated an excellence in glam, but “Another School Day” blends it with punk laden defiance decrying the monotonous nature of another day in school. Think of it along with Alice Cooper, Joan Jett and Nikki Corvette. “Another School Day” ques up in the same vein as the previous rebel without a cause notions, a trend seamlessly found amongst The Sorels other material. Too bad this is the last track, as I wish there was more.

Overall the Love Your Rock N’ Roll EP is hands down brilliant. If there was a record to get your hands on, it would be this one. The Sorels know the substance of rock n’ roll inside out and demonstrate it with exceptional quality. These four tracks certainly play on the familiar heartstrings begging for a revival of the golden age of rock n’ roll. Its not a new story nor is it irrelevant. The Sorels approach this idea with a depth of sincerity and in turn make it fun. It’s quite an enticing listen and as far as a themes for retroism goes, their song “the Jerk” is one to stand out.

Personally, my favorite track is “Make Me Party.” It’s a tune that would fit perfectly in another issue of the Glamstains comps. That said, this EP’s four tracks demand to be played on repeat. To miss out on this record would suggest a lapse in judgement and need for a possible lobotomy. Now, go pick this up, play it loud and annoy your neighbors with something good.

For more about The Sorels, check out them out on bandcamp!

Albums

Hard Times — Little Satan 7″

Hard Times

Little Satan

Spaghetty Town Records

Release: 05/06/2022

Hard Times Little Satan is a seemingly one-off diamond in the rough. This EP is a result of boredom and the need to create during the height of the Covid 19 pandemic. This record exudes everything brilliant about the glam-degenerate nature of sleaze infested proto-punk.  It’s not a surprise as it features members from Slick Bags, Desperate Fun and Suicide Generation. They are Sebastian Melmoth, Davide Chessa, Fabio Mongelli, Geoffrey and Paolo Piras.  To top it off, Little Satan was recorded at the New River Music Studios in London, England by Patrice Picard, and was mastered by Jim Diamond.  

This EP is not a record that benefits from low volume. Rather, to fully enjoy this record, the music should only be heard when’s one’s receiver is turned high enough that it’s on the verge of exploding. This is an obvious thing to do upon listening to the title track “Little Satan.” It’s a song that immediately grabs ahold of its listener with a defiant proto-punk adrenaline injection. This is thanks to a fast beat and fuzzed out guitar riffs. It;s the kind of trash glam punk that invokes a nod toward of The Joneses’ but with a style meriting the ferocity of Ex Cult.

In a similar fashion is “Oh Let It Go.” This tune is more in line with snotty glam rock n’ roll. It’s the Hard Times answer for a mover and shaker Think of it along the lines of New York Dolls inspired but, with a rock n’ roll revival aesthetic of the early 1970s. Complete with razer riffs and a strong beat this is a song demand to be danced to. Waste no time to getting rowdy, this is what this music was meant for.

“She Ain’t Here No More” is more on the mellow side record. However, the music picks up with “Do Yo Feel Like Lovin,” This one packs a considerable punch. It’s fast, loud and raucous. “Do You Feel Like Lovin” ends this record on a high note. It might even invite one to sing along to the chorus. Of course this would be helped under the right substantive persuasions.

Little Satan is a record that demands to be heard. This is a creation from a super group of depraved rock n’ rollers. Within it’s grooves are songs of untamed desperation from a deeply uncertain time. It’s music that blasts away notions of stagnation. This thanks to Hard Time’s approach to riotus sleaze glam-punk. Before Little Satan ends up in obscurity, pick it up. If by listening to this the urge to kick something over isn’t apparent, rinse and repeat.  After all, this is the sounds that debauchery is made of. Play it loud.

For more about Hard Times get their record at Spaghetty Town Records or via their Bandcamp!

Albums

The Sellwoods — House Rockin’ Party Tonight

The Sellwoods

House Rockin’ Party Tonight

Chaputa Records

Release: 04/29/2022

At last the long awaited LP from The Sellwoods is finally here. It is adequately called House Rockin’ Party Tonight. Within it’s grooves are the caveman stomping sounds reserved for everything delightfully demented about garage punk. Fans of The Incredible Staggers, The Sonics or Miracle Workers will find this record in tune with likeminded savage sounds. So,  it’s not surprising then that House Rockin’ Party Tonight was released via the renowned Chaputa Records. This record is not for the faint hearted. Rather it’s fuzz driven rock n’ roll is for those seeking music akin to the Born Bad compilations.

House Rockin’ Party Tonight kicks off strong with the pounding track “Shakedown.” In pure cave person garage punk fashion this is a song delivering a blow like a blunt club. It has a strong beat, which is extenuated but the prominent use of the organ playing. It’s simple and straight to the point.  In a similar take is “Why.”  Both of these tracks exude the emphasis of playing on the primitive side of garage rock.

Things pick up with “Curse Of The Ramones.” This is a track that edges more on the punk side of garage. Think along the lines of a snotty homage toward the three chord wonders, The Ramones. In contrast “Johnny Needs A Drink” has a Link Wray meeting A Rebel Without A Cause feel to it. It’s the kind of rock n’ roll that borrows off afore mentioned novelty idea by giving it a noticeable b-movie flair.

Much of the strength on House Rockin Party Tonight resides on the b-side. Starting this side off is “Demented Planet.”This track was originally put out on the Demented Planet EP released on June 25, 2021. It’s haunted debauched rock n’ roll at it’s best. This is a song that strikes all the right raunchy chords for untamed garage punk. It’s a feeling brilliantly felt in “Volcano Girl” and the spooky “Down In The Alley.” Both of which is also on the EP.

Another stand out song in this record is “One Eyed Cat.” From start to finish it’s solid, cruising for a bruising music. This is rock n’ roll meant for the simplistic nature of hot rod kicks.It’s a track following in line with the signature nature found in The Sellwoods defiant attitude. Be sure to waste little time by turning the dial red hot to play this one loud.

Among my favorite tracks on House Rockin’ Party Tonight are “The Walk Of Shame” and the cover of “Something Else.” “The Walk Of Shame” is an easy tune to follow. One might guess there may be some prudish societal stigma for leaving a house in the early hours after a passionate affair. The only lyrics are “the walk of shame means nothing.” This comes across as an absolute dismissal against misgiven notions of puritanical shame. If you needed a tune for this kind of meander, then you now have this garage punk anthem for a leisurely, yet self-aware excursion after leaving a bed other than your own. Enjoy!

“Something Else” is tune that ages well. It’s insolent and rebellious approach was arguably perfected by the late Sid Vicious. Now it’s brilliantly done by The Sellwoods. They capture a definitive ’66 garage rock feel by adding the spirit found with a Girls In The Garage comp.. No mistake here, this isn’t a homage to Frank Sinatra, this is rock n’ roll.

The Sellwoods have long chosen which path to follow at the devil’s crossroads. It’s the path of lifelong degenerate rock n’ roll. Now with a host of releases under their belts, they bare House Rockin’ Party Tonight for you to hear. This records boasts the sounds of germinating garage punk demanding to be heard. Top tracks are “Demented Planet,” “The Walk Of Shame” and the cover of “Something Else.” That said, this records in it’s eternity ought to paid attention to. Now, pick up this album.   

For more of The Sellwoods check out their Bandcamp or Facebook!