At Nixbeat.com, Nick Kuzmack covers a wide range of topics —both pop culture and politically related— and provides links to his material published by other media outlets.
I’m a little late publishing my list of my favorite albums from 2022. So, here is my yearly compilation of records I have written about. This isn’t meant as a competition and isn’t in any particular order. Instead it’s a celebration of work from very talented artists. 2022 brought excitement of the great music . Groups like The Sorels, The Mellons, Faz Waltz, Newtown Neurotics and The Speedways released solid mateial. Since checking their records out, they have been a constant companion on my turntables, DJ sets and for the willing and unsuspecting listeners alike. Below are my selections that stood out for 2022. All articles were published exclusively here at nixbeat.com.
Read the excerpts and then click the links to reviews below.
QWAMare 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.
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.
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.
