Category Archives: Uncategorized

LEGAL NOISE: Tough As Nails.

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Here’s another accidental find for you- Legal Noise. They released their new EP, Tough As Nails yesterday. It consists of four songs to smash your skull, destroy your hearing and move your soul. The songs are rowdy, exceptional and of course, beautifully obnoxious. A real gnarly Punk record to blast out super loud.

Lazy comparisons will be to the likes of The Chats or Skegss; but Legal Noise are their own kind of noise. Much like The Chats and Skegss. All three bands are incredible, and I absolutely adore them. Basically, Australis sure knows how to give us some great Punk bands. These are the kind of songs you play when you feel like you’re a bit of a slacker or a burden (Disgrace being the EP opener that really hits you) but you make peace with it, and you stop caring what anyone thinks of you. Easier said than done but trust me, you’ll feel much better when you get to this stage.

Goon Man is one of their heaviest songs to date. The guitar on this is insane- it reminds me of Birmingham’s finest, Table Scraps. That sheer loudness and the way it makes you feel like something has got right inside your skull with zero chance of an apology happening. Why get mad about it? This is the most glorious sound. Goon Man doesn’t sound like a song from now- there is something about it that could happily have been released in maybe the early 90s when Grunge was kicking off. Legal Noise sure know how to make music to wonderfully fuck with your brain and make you feel alive. I’ll say it again, they are another band that make you wish you could go to a live show. This EP live would sound ridiculous. It’d be an utter rampage, and you’d want to be in that moment constantly.

I really love the raw sound on this EP, and for me it does remind me a little bit of very early Silverchair (Frogstomp record for sure) and that loudness is just divine. Aside from being everything I could want from a record; they are astounding musicians. The drums are intense and you can truly hear how remarkable they are as musicians on Double Trouble. I love the lo-fi feel to this record, and how you are made to feel like you are watching them play these songs in a garage or what have you. They give you this insight into their world and sound on this EP, and they do it in a way that just leaves you utterly speechless. I think this is one of the most exciting EPs I’ve heard in a long time.

Legal Noise have been around since 2019 (I think) and this EP is definitely a testament to how great they are. I’ve only just got hip to them, but I reckon it’ll be one of my finest finds of the year (bold, I know) and I really cannot wait to hear more from them. They are such a joy to listen to, and they just make you want to forget the world and go into your own universe. Their songs are made to be blasted out as loud as possible. Once you’ve checked out the Tough As Nails EP, make sure you go back and listen to the rest of their hits.

Nightmare is a great song, and as you keep on listening to what they’ve released prior to Tough As Nails, you will hear a band that are on their own journey to discovering their sound. They are such a great band and I really cannot wait to hear more from them. Tough As Nails may only have four songs on, but these four songs will straight up blow your mind.

DADDIES.

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Here’s another accidental find- Daddies. Straight out of New Jersey, this band are ridiculously good. Is it a crime to be this good? Daddies have just released their new EP (titled EP II) and let me tell you, it’s Garage Rock heaven. Five excellent songs to get you through the day, or maybe just through life. They make the kind of songs you learn the words to, and scream in unison in the comfort of your own home (because right now, that’s all you can do.)

They remind me a little of bands like Küken and Flesh Rag, both of which I absolutely adore to pieces. Daddies are brilliant musicians, and that really shines on this EP. I mean, it did on the first one but you know when you hear a new band and you can hear the growth in the sound? That’s what you get from EP II by Daddies. It is such a great record, and in times of uncertainty, it’s really comforting to hear something like this. You can just have it playing loudly, and you zone out. Or take a walk whilst listening to it. Again, they are another band who you just wish you could see live. I reckon a Daddies show would be completely off the wall and memorable. They just have such a tight sound, and reminds you exactly why you love music.

Daddies bio reads, “Catchy hooks, sexy rhythms, and lyrics you can’t help but get down with” which is extremely accurate. That sentence sums them up to a tee, and if that doesn’t sell you on them, then I have no idea what will. That raw and filthy Garage Rock sound is so powerful on this record, and it is the band at their absolute best. Of course, it’s a bit shit that this is only five songs long, but if like me you’ve instantly become obsessed with it- then you’ll just keep it on repeat. You want to stay in the world they create with their sound, and to probably join the band. They just make really great music to get down with. Daddies make it easy for you to become a fan of theirs; there is just so much to love about their sound. The song Dream sounds like it could be in some bizarre Thriller film as it comes to an end. There’s something really eerie about it, and it is such a huge sounding song. It’d sound perfect at the end of a film where everything comes together, and it then takes a twist and messes with your head.

Their debut EP came out in 2019, and much like EP II, the songs were made to be heard live. You can’t help but long to be covered in beer that has been thrown around by an overexcited crowd and throwing their bodies into each other, as you sing along to these anthems. I think I’m making it worse for myself by listening to bands like this, because I want to go to a show SO badly. But, I’m not the only one of course, and that makes it easier.

If you’re looking for a band to play loud to piss off your annoying neighbours, or a band to keep you sane whilst everything seems to be going to shit or if you just want something that makes you feel GOOD; then Daddies are the band for YOU. They are a joy to listen to. Two EPs aren’t enough and you will want more. I know I do, but I cannot wait to hear what’s next from them. Both EPs have differences and similarities, and it is safe to say both are incredible.

Daddies are your new favourite band. You’re welcome.

CAIRO JAG.

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Right out of Indianapolis we’ve got Cairo Jag. They make straight up Heavy Psych style music that will have you blasting their sounds out ridiculously loud. They’re not for the faint hearted or for those who can’t handle some heavy shit. There’s only three of them in the band, but they sound like there’s about ten of them. Of course, the best way to enjoy their music is as loud as you can possibly stand, but if you’re wanting to really hear how great they are; stick some headphones on and play their music right in your ears. Get super close to it, and really take it all in. Regardless of how you choose to listen to this band- make sure you REALLY listen to them.

The Wasted Priorities EP that came out in 2019 is such a great record; it is the perfect introduction to the band, and the six songs are a clear indication of how great they are and how exceptional they will become. If a band can sound like this with just one EP to their name, then there’s no telling just how phenomenal they will become. You are catapulted into an obscure world when you listen to Cairo Jag; you’re not on planet earth when you listen to them at all, and the way they lure you in with their hypnotic grooves and killer sounds just absolutely grips you. Fever Inducer could well be their greatest song to date, and you don’t feel like you are listening to a current band when you play this one. There’s something really 60s Psych Rock about this band. Think a heavy take on The Pretty Things; then it will click. Death Boogie has a killer bassline intro to it, you really won’t find anything better.

There is something quite nostalgic about their sound, and I know it is such an overused phrased but honestly, Cairo Jag really do have that sound. But by no means does it sound like a rip off or fake. It is such a joy to listen to, and you can’t help but close your eyes whilst listening to songs like Death Boogie and really take in just how incredible they are.

They make the ideal music to just lose your shit to. You can throw things around if you feel that way inclined, you can move your body round in questionable ways, head bang or just sit there and zone out- it’s all on you. There is so much to take in, but the main take from Cairo Jag is that they are exceptional musicians with such a joyful passion towards what they do. I adore their sound, and again, they are another band that have you longing for shows (note: tomorrow (17th) they’ll be putting three live songs up on their Instagram/YouTube page, so check that out!)

Cairo Jag recently released a split single with Hyper Tensions which is the heaviest they have sound. There’s this slight Stoner Rock feel to Eternal Nightmare, and you guessed it- you need to play it loud. You also need to check out the demos they released in 2018 which includes a great cover of The Witch by The Sonics. When you listen to these demos, then head right into Wasted Priorities, you will definitely hear just how solid their sound is. They’ve not been around long, but there is something about them that gives off the vibe that they’ve been around for decades and decades. They have such a great sound that they have evidently perfected; I’m just really excited to hear what’s next from them.

We’re all frustrated and sad that we can’t see our favourite bands play at the moment, and bands like Cairo Jag just heighten those frustrations because they are THAT good. Imagine being in a cramped venue with them playing so loud you are left a bit deaf for a few days after. Constant ringing in your ears for a few days, and an aching body from moving in your own sweet way to the sounds. Perfect, right?

SYLVAIN SYLVAIN: A tribute to a New York Doll.

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Sylvain Sylvain of New York Dolls starts GoFundMe as he battles cancer - Noise11.com

When writing about influential bands, it is so easy to reel off our typical Punk heroes such as Ramones, Dead Boys etc. But before they cast themselves beautifully upon the world, we had the New York Dolls. For me, they were the ultimate band. Not just Punk, not just a typical Rock ‘n’ Roll band. Nothing typical or conventional at all. They were the coolest of the cool. Outsiders who didn’t care that they were being gawped at. They were unapologetically themselves and made music for a generation that would continue to speak to other generations to come. Every single member of the Dolls had something about them that just lured you in, and that was that. Nothing was the same since.

Losing Sylvain Sylvain today is a painful reminder that our heroes don’t live forever. Well, physically they don’t. But they do in other ways. New York Dolls have always been hugely underrated, and I don’t think people realise just how influential their style was and always will be. Sylvain and Johnny were two of the most hypnotising guitarists ever. There will never ever be anyone else like them, and I will always cite them as the greatest. Both had this magnetic style, and this attitude that just made you wish you were as cool as them. Let’s be honest though, no one in the world could ever be as cool as the Dolls.

New York Dolls were one of the first bands I remember my mum playing to me when I was a tot. That debut record is EASILY one of the greatest of all time. The greatest debut record ever, and if a record doesn’t make me feel like that one does- then my attention span goes down the shitter. It was ahead of its time. It was the future; and it always will be. Nothing in this world can touch it. It was pure Rock ‘n’ Roll but with something else that only the Dolls had. A huge part of that was Sylvain’s energy and just the way he would play. My god it was fascinating. There was something about hearing him play that was so comforting. Johnny would have you on edge, but Sylvain would kind of bring you back down but still throw you off into another world. Everything about the Dolls was just so effortlessly slick and a masterpiece every single time.

Subway Train is my favourite song by the Dolls- I love the sorrow in the song, I love the honesty and the lyrics are just so gorgeous. They just hit you right in the soul, and for me, just sums up the genius of the band. Sylvain’s solo work and other projects are equally as vital as his time with the Dolls. Everything he did just showed us how remarkable he was. From interviews I’ve watched, you can just see that he was the sweetest guy ever, and lived for music. From watching videos of him playing the shit out of the guitar whilst wearing high heeled shoes, you can just see the passion in him for music. Although the New York Dolls were no more after 2011, knowing that we won’t see Sylvain anymore just really hurts. He had his Rampage of Songs page on Facebook where he would share the music he loved. It was such a beautiful way to see our hero interact with fans of all ages, and share all kinds of tunes. He loved music, and in return we just adored him.

Whatever I write about Sylvain will not do him justice. It won’t sum up just how remarkable he was, it won’t bring him back. The art he gave us will live forever; that’s the beauty of music. It will outlive us all, and in 20, 30 years’ time- maybe some kid will hear Lonely Planet Boy or Trash for the first time, and create their own noise. Maybe they’ll study Sylvain’s way of playing, his lyrics, his vocals and will just be utterly inspired to make something of their own. If we hold onto that, then maybe the loss won’t hurt as much in time. For now, it will hurt. I’m absolutely gutted, and feel so heartbroken about this. New York Dolls were one of the first bands I remember hearing. They were a band I could speak to my mum, my uncle, my girlfriend about for hours on end- because they love them just as much. Music goes beyond being just music. It is something that becomes your world.

Safe trip Sylvain, and thank you x

THE BAD NEWS: Take It Out.

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I’m pretty sure most of the bands I write about are from France; but by no means is that a bad thing. They sure know how to produce some exceptional bands and musicians, and a band that can happily be added to that list are The Bad News.

Their new record, Take It Out came out today and on first listen, it is safe to say it is a really exciting record from start to finish. These three pals sure know how to make delightful noise. Make that ADDICTIVE, delightful noise. They’re the real deal. You don’t know where in the world you are when you listen to them, and where they take you is some place really far out. Better than what’s going on right now. They make you feel like you are right there with them- whether it be in a dingy bar or in their studio. You feel you are right there with them as you listen to this record.

This twelve song record is perfect for any blues you may have or if you just want something loud to play to drown the world out. Whatever your circumstance, The Bad News are the band for you. You want a band to make you feel like your heart is going a hundred miles per hour with the intense drums? The Bad News have got you. You want to hear riffs that make you feel like an electric shock has got right to your soul? They’ve got you. All of this and more; The Bad News have got you for sure.

There’s no other band or record for me to liken The Bad News to, and just like the other bands from France I have written about; The Bad News are just a sheer joy to listen to. There’s something about this record that just sticks with you. You feel like you’ve found your new favourite band, or you’ve found something to really cling on to. We don’t know if this year is going to be good or fucked up again, but when we have bands like The Bad News putting records out, that sense of dread falls away slightly.

The songs don’t make the three minute mark, and they have this solid Punk feel mixed with something spooky and a bit sordid- it’s great! This is what we want, this is what we need! Take Drugs With You sounds like something The Cramps could have done. The way these songs just hit you is incredible and such a pleasure to listen to. You just want to spend your days listening to this record, and do nothing else. There is something magical about a record that you accidently stumble across, and I really get that from this record. What the band give us on Take It Out is something to really treasure. Of course we want to go to shows, but this record puts you in that environment quite easily.

Every song on this record gives you this raw energy, and like I mentioned, it really does make you feel like you are there with them. I Want To Get High is the main song on the record that makes you wish you could see this band live. It’s got that rowdy energy to it, and you can just imagine a bunch of sweaty bodies jumping along to this, and screaming the words back to the band. Utter bliss. Then it goes right into Rock City Baby which is a right face-melting bop. The whole record is made up of songs that could fill stadiums. This band deserve to be massive, like really HUGE. Take It Out is such a great listen, and every song just blows you away.

I can’t possibly pick a favourite on this one. I’ve played the record a few times today, and the more I listen the more I love the band. That’s when you know you’ve found something special, and something you will keep going back to. Every song on this record is made to be played loud. Every song on this record deserves to be seen live, but until we get there again- just buy the record, and play it as loud as you can.

MILKDONALD.

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There are times when you listen to a band/singer, and you wish you could find out more about them. But it turns out that they are elusive, a mystery. Adds some romance to the experience, if you like. Yet again Kafadan Kontak Records have given us a new release to lose ourselves in.

Milkdonald is from Carbondale (Illinois) and it’s a one-man Punk riot (with some help from local bands). It’s everything you could want from gnarly, lo-fi gritty Punk band, and more! These four songs were created during quarantine and were recorded on an iPhone- pretty neat right?! I’m in love with the sheer noise on this record, and the song I Eat Pig feels like someone screaming their frustrations out because they are so pissed at how the world is. I think that’s something we can all relate to. This may be the one you need to play louder than most. I think we all need a moment (or five) to just open the window and scream. Let out all that sadness, rage, confusion, despair- whatever it is you’re feeling. Let it all out. Or do what Milkdonald has done and record some noise on your phone, then share it with the world.

The magic of these songs is that they were done in either one or two takes. You can hear that raw energy in every single song, and that pent-up fury is so great to hear. Sometimes you’ve just got to lose yourself in a loud Punk record and fuck the world off for a bit. There’s something really comforting in this, and it just makes you want to trash your room or something.

Life would suck without music, and it’d be even worse without bands like Milkdonald who are evidently unafraid to just let it all out and share their frustrations with the world. That’s how you get through. I don’t even think this record lasts 10 minutes, so even if you have a shitty attention span like me, then this record will be perfect for you.

I know nothing about Milkdonald, but I do know this- this is a record that will unleash all your fury and whatever else it is that you’re carrying around. It’s a real gritty Punk record that has a great DIY feel to it. You just want to keep on playing it until your ears can’t cope with the loudness anymore. Play it loud and let Milkdonald lure you into their world. Scream along to the songs, let it all out and do it daily.

BABY CANDY.

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We know that Australia has given us some amazing bands, and Baby Candy are another band you can cite as being exceptional. They are everything you could want from a Stoner/Psych Rock band, and more. If you want loud sounds with some good ol’ fashioned reverb; then Baby Candy are the band for you. They’re for everyone.

They’ve just released two new singles (She’s Melting and What’s Inside) and these songs are not to be ignored at all. They are to be blasted out as loud as possible. Tell everyone you know about this band. Then we can all cry together until bands can tour again. They definitely give off that vibe of being a band that you HAVE to see live. This kind of music isn’t made to just be heard in bedrooms or through headphones. This band definitely need to be seen live. It’s bittersweet in a way because you can hear just how great they are but at the same time- you just wish you could go to a show.

Baby Candy have been going since 2018 (I think) and up on their Bandcamp page there is a song from 2018, some demos made last year and the two singles that came out this month. Although we do not have many songs, what they have given us so far is a clear indication that this band are really great. They sound like everything you could possibly want from a band that are unafraid to be loud and really delve into creating their own sound. The demos they made last year (titled Pandemos) are four songs that really hit you in the gut. There is so much going on, and so much to appreciate. They are brilliant musicians, and with just a handful of songs they have most certainly created something to be treasured.

That solid Garage Rock sound is there, but it’s mixed with this heaviness that just makes you zone out in the most magical way possible. You feel like you’ve gone back to the 60s with these songs (the Pandemos) but stepped into the future at the same time. I just love what they do, and I love their sound so much. There are a few bands I could liken their sound to (as in bands I love) but when you keep listening to them, you can’t help but think “I’ve never heard anything like this before!” There is something familiar yet brand new about them, and that’s what I adore about them so much.

Baby Candy are the kind of band that you don’t just half heartedly listen to. You really invest your time into their music- there is so much to love and appreciate about their music, and I think that is part of the charm. It’s totally fine to have bands that you listen to in the background or whatever, but sometimes you want something that just gets you right in the gut. If you want to really experience this, play their song Have You Lost Your Mind. You will see what I mean. It’s the kind of song that makes you stop what you are doing, and all you can do is focus on this song. Everything on this song is just golden and beautiful. I can’t get enough of it, and it’s easily my favourite song by them so far.

The sheer ferociousness in the songs, the production, everything- it is just impeccable. We need bands like this. They really do make you feel like you’re going into another universe with them. Shut your eyes and silence your mind when you listen to Baby Candy and let them take you on a trip. Go as far out as possible, and don’t come back down to earth if you don’t want to. Live in the world they have created and be free.

VIAGRA BOYS: Welfare Jazz.

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Weiner dawgs! It is finally here- the new record by Viagra Boys! Is it going to be the best thing to happen this year? More than likely. The only thing to top it would be if bands could tour again. We can only hope.

Anyway, the record is obviously brilliant because it is Viagra Boys. They just don’t have it in them to do anything half arsed or boring; they are truly one of the most exciting bands around and does anyone else sound like them? Absolutely not! They are one of a kind, and they are just exceptional. This record is one you won’t just play once and be done with it. It’s the kind of record that you become obsessed with. You’ll talk about it to anyone who will listen, and even if no one listens- you’re still going to let them know about it. Right away you just know it is going to be a remarkable record, and the opener Ain’t Nice just smacks you right in the face. Beautiful!

I love how the record sounds like it was made to be played so loud, and often. I love every single sound on this record and that Blues-like feel that is in Sebastian’s voice is just fucking divine. They have all gone above and beyond with this record. In some parts, when I listen to this record, I feel like I am listening to Nick Cave & The Bad Seeds for the very first time. There is so much going on and so much to take in, which is why you need to just keep on playing this record.

I’ve played it a few times already and I can safely say that I am obsessed with Toad. There is something about this song that reminds me of Suicide mixed with Nick Cave and Captain Beefheart. It is a masterpiece, and it’s probably going to be one of the best things I’ll ever listen to. Probably. It feels like something you’d get from one of the Beat Poets- there’s a lot of soul, trouble and passion in the song, and I think that’s what just keeps me going right back to it. Then it goes right into This Old Dog and before you know it, you are lost in the sounds of Into The Sun. For me, the way this flows is just impeccable. Some like to listen to a record in order and some don’t. Regardless of your preference, listen to this record in full and in order. Do not skip anything, do not assume you need to change up the flow of the songs. Just soak it all up in order. After that, do what you will. But honestly, listening to it in order is the best way.

Into The Sun will break your heart. The honesty and the vulnerability in the vocals and lyrics are just beautiful. It is so painful and heart-breaking but my god it is so beautiful. If anyone ever doubts the talent of this band, then show them the lyrics to this because it is just so fragile and open. This is the same band that opened the record with the face-melting Ain’t Nice- remember that!

Every single song on this record needs to be heard, and if you’re looking for one to play a bit louder then you need to make it 6 Shooter. Play that gem as loud as you can. It is was made to be played loud. I think the whole record was, but this one needs to be turned up a little louder. There is one song on the record that I need to mention, because it features one of the best vocalists around- Amy Taylor from Amyl & The Sniffers.

The record ends with a cover of In Spite Of Ourselves, and Sebastian and Amy’s vocals together are just beautiful. It works so well, and to hear their voices calmer than what we are used to just shows us how incredible they are. It’s such a gorgeous song, and I could happily listen to a record of them both together. It is just so beautifully sung and put together; I could listen to this forever and not get bored.

I could happily write thousands of words about why this record is sublime; there is so much to love about this record. I’m in awe of how they have gone from Street Worms to Welfare Jazz; you can hear the growth, but you can also hear that same rugged sound that we all love and treasure. I’m slowly getting better from having that pissing Coronavirus, and I’ve had next to no interest in listening to music let alone write about it. Welfare Jazz was exactly what I needed today. It’s more than a Punk record. It’s more than just 13 songs. It’s something else, something that goes beyond my words or anyone else’s.

Is it their masterpiece? Of course, it is. Street Worms was too, and everything they will do will more than likely be a masterpiece. I just really love this band. That’s all this is really. A declaration of love for a band that I am obsessed with.

MONOS.

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After spending nearly 2 weeks sick with Coronavirus and doing nothing but sleeping, I can safely say that I feel a bit better. Well enough to write about a brilliant band from Florence, and after that- I will probably take myself back to bed and sleep the rest of the evening off.

Monos are the kind of band you’d accidentally stumble upon at a basement bar whilst waiting for someone or something; but what happens is Monos take you over and everything else goes out the window and doesn’t matter. You then find yourself being completely consumed by the band and whatever your plans were before finding the band have become meaningless. That’s totally fine. That’s when you know you have found a band to become obsessed with. Monos are THAT band. They have something about them that just screams PLAY THIS REALLY FUCKING LOUD! They have this creepy feel to their sound which immediately takes you back to hearing The Damned and The Cramps for the first time; this raw and unfiltered sound that you just can’t get enough of. Let it be known that Italy is the home to some brilliant bands, and if you don’t believe me already- then hopefully Monos will change your mind.

Their debut record came out last year, titled Peep Show and it is just such a great record. Every song sounds like it was made for a jukebox in a dive bar and to be played at 3am when you should be making your way home. We can’t do that at the moment, so just play their music as loud as you can at home! Peep Show is such a smutty record, and it has this effortlessly cool sound that leaves you unsure if you’re listening to a band from the past or the future. Who knows! That’s what I really love about them, and every song just sounds SO good. You can’t get enough of bands like this, and if by the grace of some higher power we can go to shows next year- I hope Monos make their way to the UK. We need them!

This duo is just exceptional. The noise they make is divine, and you just wish you could make something even a fraction as great as this. I know I do! But, I’ll stick to writing about them. Peep Show is such a great record, and I wish I had written about it sooner. Every single song is worthy of our attention, time and love. The songs would work perfectly in some trashy Horror film where you can blatantly tell that the blood is ketchup and the set shakes constantly. These 12 songs will just leave you wanting more and more, but the best thing is- you will not get tired of having Monos on repeat at all. 

There is nothing dull about this band at all, and with every listen you just find something else to adore about this band. The production, the vocals, the noise they grace us with is just insane. How can a band like this exist?! I’m so glad that they do. If you’re looking for a band to move you and make you give a shit about music (how could you not?!) then I urge you to listen to Monos. Really, really listen to them. Play it loud, play it daily and escape whatever hell you are in when you listen to Monos. They are utterly flawless. Chef’s kiss all round for this band!

Rock Party, The Snake and Monos Twist show us exactly why this duo are the best at what they do. There is no one better. Also, they fully justify my love for duos.

I am so excited to hear more from Monos, but for now I’ll just obsessively play Peep Show.

THE GRUESOMES: Cave-In.

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Back in 2000 Canada’s finest, The Gruesomes released the effortlessly cool record; Cave-In.

Go forward 2 decades, and this record is getting re-released by Alien Snatch!Records. There’s even some new artwork for the record too.

If you know The Gruesomes, you will know that they are probably one of the greatest bands ever! Their slick and just effortlessly cool sound is timeless. Their first record came out in 1986 (I think) and they’ve had this cult-like following.

I’ve been obsessed with them for so long, and when I heard that Cave-In was getting re-released, I just knew I had to go back and listen to it and try to put into words how great the record is. Of course Tyrants of Teen Trash will always own my heart but Cave-In is such a solid record. It came out 20 years ago, but it sounds like it could have come out back in the 60s. That’s what is so special to me about The Gruesomes- you never knew what decade they could have come from. They take you back and forth through time, and I think Cave-In is a prime example of this.

Stop It,Girl is a beautiful woeful number telling some girl to stop dragging your heart around. The Gruesomes do this so well. They spew out the songs of longing and heartache in such a beautiful and romantic way. But by no means is done in a soppy fashion. No thank you. Not round here. There’s that Punk like snarl in the songs, such as You’re Not The Boss Of Me and it’s the perfect fuck you to someone who has gone too far. There’s a hypnotic Psych groove in this one, and it’s definitely one of my favourites on the record. 

Going back and listening to this record, and knowing it came out 20 years ago but it takes you further back than that. For me, listening to this record is just like discovering The Gruesomes for the first time all over again. These 14 songs fully justify why I love this band so much, and why having this record re-issued is such a great thing. It will turn more people onto this band. Bands like The Gruesomes, The Mummies and The Cramps just had something so unique and beautifully creepy about their sound. They made you feel okay with being absolutely weird. The three greatest bands of all time, for sure.

Cave-In has everything you could possibly want from a record. It’s got rebellious songs to lose your mind to and songs to just really treasure. I just adore this band a hell of a lot. Come And See Me (I’m Your Man) is such a wild song. The vocals on this are so raw and it just makes you wish you  could go to a show so badly. I think it’s one of their most underrated records, but to be honest the band in general are just criminally underrated.

If this was my first ever time listening to The Gruesomes, I’d be utterly blown away. But you know, you still get that same buzz if you’ve heard it a billion times before. Serves You Right is the one you need to blast a little extra loud. It’s a real bratty and snotty number that should get you moving.

I just absolutely love this band SO much, and to be able to hear this re-issue and to know that The Gruesomes will gain some new fans from this is just so fucking cool!