Denim and leather-clad Texas rockers Killer Hearts are still riding high from their debut LP release “Skintight Electric” are now hitting the road to spread the gospel of rock and roll. They’ve also released a video directed by Seyla Hossaini. The concept for the video, rock and roll women, a night on the town and getting up to no good, with Killer Hearts “Dynamite Tramp” playing the soundtrack! It’s a throwback to the early days of MTV when we had to stay up late to see the rock and roll videos.
Killer Hearts debut full-length “Skintight Electric” is out now on all streaming and download platforms. Vinyl can be purchased in the US from Spaghetty Town Records and in Europe from Dragstrip Riot Records.
Sweden’s boogie rock legends Diamond Dogs are back with the new single and music video ‘ALRIGHT BRUTUS I’M ON!’ The track is taken from the swedes upcoming double album ‘SLAP BANG BLUE RENDEZVOUS’, set for release on January 21.
Slap Bang Blue Rendezvous is a release for children of the 70’s. From the top it conjures up the spirits of the 70’s glam rock era. The warm atmosphere brings the air of the golden age, and the energy of the songs and performance give a promise of rock music for the new generation! Diamond Dogs leaves the listener feeling like they’ve been somewhere momma told them not to go, but knowing that they’ll soon be visiting again!
“This is my masterpiece, my White Album” as Tomas Skogsberg himself puts it. And we can only agree!
Hear Alright Brutus I’m On and pre-order the album: Here
Finally why not check out the new Jesse Malin video for ‘Dance With The System’ from Jesse Malin’s latest double album, ‘Sad and Beautiful World’, out now on Wicked Cool Records.
OK Rock n Rollers, the time is here, the time is now! Sleazy Punk Rock n Rollers Killer Hearts have teased us with their EP and a few compilation cuts but now they’ve dropped their bomb of a full-length record and it kicks like a mother fucking mule. Imagine Cheetah Chrome and Stiv fronting a punk rock n roll band in 2021 with a history of sleazy rock and glam (no not the sunset strip glam – real glam) and they’ve gone and poured their molten sleaze on ten tracks on wax and then hit the explode button to supercharge this fucker with lipstick and a laced up iron fist – its full to the brim with Thunderbird fueled punk rock with the charm and borrowed gang vocal of The Boys, these cats can whip your ass if you throw them some shade and they’ll be the best damn party you’ve ever pushed a front door on.
With tried and tested titles like ‘Get Some’ and ‘Savage Heathen’ you just know instinctively what ‘Dead End Kid 4 Ever’ is going to sound like and if you’re still in doubt then maybe 24/7 Action’ and ‘Goodtime Motherfuckers’ should seal the deal. Listen, if you’re looking for right on politically correct modern rock then you’ve opened the wrong review and we don’t cover Muse or Biffy Cliro this is Rock and Roll baby, with some cheap wine, a switchblade comb and a pack of lucky strike no filter. Marvel at the artwork and the fact it’s pressed on red-light district red vinyl. It’s a late record for people who hanker after the Dead Boys, The Heartbreakers, and Hanoi on steroids these cats cut the crap and rock out using all the chords their heroes did and you’ll be damned if you think they’re going to apologise for it and why the fuck should they.
Right, the tunes. ‘Get Some’ is a thunderous downstroke killer of an opener. Setting the tone with a rush of blood it’s kicking the door off the hinges and going for broke before the cops come. “Like a bad habit, use it take it” Get some indeed. From the bass throb in the breakdown to the tambourine joining in the rhythm to that killer solo that rips across your face it’s like when Guns and Roses burst on the scene with ‘Live Like a Suicide’ before they imploded and forgot their roots this is thunder and lightning in a bottle that’s been shaken and the top taken off.
I’ve been waiting for this album to get released for a while and I was hoping that the high expectations would be met and after the opening few tunes I’m loving it and those expectations have been reached and some. ‘Do Your Thing’ is full to bursting with Chuck Berry licks a plenty played at Dee Dee speed through fuck you speakers! Take a breather kids because these punks are taking over the pit with the sonic reducer phaser and ‘Savage Heathen’ is having it both barrels and there ain’t nothing we can do about itas solos dive in through the speakers like bolts of lightning striking your ears and heart.
After ‘Dynamite Heart’ has muscled its way into the reckoning I was worried that they couldn’t maintain the standards but fuck me sideways this is the Sleazy Rock n Roll album the world has been waiting for its epic and exciting. Sure it’s been done before but who really gives a fuck its Rock and Roll baby and I fuckin Like it!
You want punchy rockers then step up and take a swing at ‘Midnight Lucifer’ a thunderous powerhouse with an earworm chorus that will rip your ear off and throw up its rock down your canal straight to your pleasure receptors in that punch drunk brain of yours. Hell, we’re only halfway through and this is showing no sign of letting up.
Play ‘Good Time Motherfucker’ to your nan she’d love it from the gang vocals through the verses and that piano tonk this is exceptional stuff. Howling harmonica approaching in the name of ‘Scream and Shout’ now join in on those gang vocals kids you know you want to, hell they’ve even loaned The Boys gang ‘oh oh oh ohs’ and I’m sure Honest John and the lads would approve it would only get cooler if they had asked them to the recording and join the band to lend a hand.
If you’re asking for a favourite song then I’m at a loss really such is the quality of the album but if you held a gun to my head then maybe ’24/7 Action’ might get the nod for its dirty riff and sleazy vocals and the punch of the rhythm section.
Shit, we even had some acoustic guitars for the intro of ‘Dead End Kids 4 Ever’ but it was short-lived and the chorus is a killer (obviously) Damn we’re on the last track. ‘Buried In Leather’ is a dark romp that is full of harnessed feedback and has an aggressive punch.
Easily one of the finest records I’ve had the pleasure of hearing all year and one I’ve already played to death – on repeated plays (not something you can say these days) and there isn’t one single weakness I’ve heard thus far. A beautiful noise if ever there was one and a crash and burn record if ever there was one, a vital, must-own if you’ve ever had a fire in your heart for loud, dirty, sleazy Punk Rock and Roll! Buy it! play Loud or else I’m sending the boys round.
Hard-Ons – ‘Lite As A Feather’ (Cheersquad Records) From the album ‘I’m Sorry Sir, That Riff’s Been Taken’ HArd-Ons 2021 are right on the money and killing it with this new single and if this an indication of the album then bring it on. Tim Rogers joining the Hard-Ons wasn’t mind-boggling enough – plenty of fans of both parties thought it was a prank when initially announced – the group’s new video, for the rousing “Lite As A Feather”, will no doubt cause more confusion. Featuring footage of the four band members playing along to the song in isolation but mixing up their roles. The albums out October 8th write it in your diary. Pre order the album Here
Frvits – ‘Stupid Era’ (Slovenly Recordings) Hardcore punk rockers kicking the shit out of some poor defenseless instruments with the treble turned up and the twang on the bass set to pierce your head. An important part of your diet is punk rock music and this 7″ will nourish and give sustenance that’s a given.
This “Stupid Era” platter is a relentless attack, fronted by Shit Vicious on a radioactive vox, and featuring Wind of Change (associate of PRIORS & DUCHESS SAYS), Krispy Karl, Alexander Ortiz, and Blag Dahlia/Jesus (DWARVES) with a vocal appearance on the penultimate track “Abortion Hoops.” This one is awesome, fun, and as abstract as a frvit salad served in a urinal haha perfect I hear you say or heave.
The Dirty Denims – ‘Rock and Roll All Night’ (Screaming Crow Records) What’s not to like? It’s a decent effort and most people like a summery Kiss cover and this ticks all the boxes.
Bitch Queens – ‘Burn It Down’ (Lux Noise Records) Call it Deathpunk call it Action Rock call it what you like we’ll just call it Quality. This one is a Banger no question about it. They’ve never let us down before and by the sounds of it they are still raging and writing excellent pissed-off loud punk n roll. That my friends is unquestionable and a fact. It is the third single off the upcoming album “Custom Dystopia” which will be released on November 5th. so mark that in your diary!
Killer Hearts – ‘Savage Heathen’ (Spaghetty Town Records (USA) / Dragstrip Riot Records (Europe) ) Looking every inch the Rock and Roll superstars that the world is crying out for Killer Hearts have got the chops to back up the leather and are hellbound with all the devils best riffs. ‘Savage Heathens’ is a perfect introduction for anyone looking for their next bunch of pin-ups to go on their wall like their Ziggy and Iggy pics alongside Stiv and Alice. Loud, fast, unruly and fuckin dynamite. Just wait until you hear the whole album it’s a guaranteed no-brainer and must-own record. Buy It!
ACID BLOOD – ‘Tombstone World’ (janml-records) Trying to break the world record with the number of videos taken from one single album Acid Blood take this one to the altar and knock out a performance for the banger that is ‘Tombstone World’. Now they’re out of isolation maybe they can get on with that follow up album. Top tune though
Dead Dirty Dinosaurs – ‘Catalyst’ (Riot Records) Brisbane icons in the making are back with a new tune with A love of 90’s alt rock, punk, post punk and post rock it’s engaging and full on – check it out.
The Chords UK’s ‘ Hey Kids! Come The Revolution’(EPOP Records) A three-track CD from the forthcoming album ‘ Big City Dreams’ is a cool slice of punk rock with hints of the mighty Clash. Chris Pope isn’t interested in remaining frozen in time and his aim has always been to push forward to develop a new identity, a new sound and new songs with a contemporary harder edge. ‘Big City Dreams’ does exactly that. And then some and this single is proof that he’s achieved his goal.
DANGEREENS – ‘Thieves’ (Golden Robot Records) We raved about Dangereens during lockdown and their most excellent debut album. After signing to Golden Robot Records theve picked the excellent rocker ‘Thieves’ to get the band back out there. Harking back to a time in the 70s when Rock and Roll really mattered and hitting the pop charts was a big deal. This is the kind of track that deserves to be seen and heard. Check it out.
Seven Days and Doesn’t Die – ‘No Restitution’ – The unmistakable pipes of Kit Swing on lead vocals as her band thump through this unrelenting rocker ‘No Restitution’. This thumping rocker is lifted from the bands debut album due in November and one you should consider highlighting in your diary for your ears attention. Pre Order it here
MEMBRANES – ‘Borders Blurred’ The track that should have been on the band’s comeback album from 2019 but just couldn’t finish it. After a radical re-haul it now feels fresh and new and reflects these times where cultural borders are truly blurred, whilst also being a song about dislocation and being an astronaut floating in space looking back at the end of times of the planet Earth.. It’s contemporary and pretty bloody good – more please Mr Robb and co.
Membranes have just re-issued a double-LP vinyl set of “What Nature Gives, Nature Takes Away”, available from their Bandcamp store https://membranes.bandcamp.com
Riskee & The Ridicule – Too Young To Be Old’ (Bomber Music) Excellent take on the Lana Del Rey tune and two others besides. The band released the songs individually throughout 2020 and have got Bomber Music to package them together as the band take the tunes out on the rad now that things are openng up. Hit them up for the dates you wont be disappointed. BUY/PLAY THE EP HERE: WATCH THE VIDEOS HERE:
Right seeing as were struggling midway through 2021 what with no live shows still and with opening up being on hold how about we introduce you to some fantastic bands we love and think you would love? OK, First up in this series we’ve got Donnie from The Satanic Overlords Of Rock ‘n’ Roll to fill in a few blanks about who they are and why you should investigate them further. make yourself comfortable and lend us your ear…
Firstly introduce yourself who are you and what is your role in the band?
I’m Donnie Stokes and I’m the vocalist for the band.
Where did you get the band name from? Were any others in contention?
One of our guitarists and main songwriter Bill Fool was getting divorced at the time we started playing together. While in court his ex-wife stood and pointed at him and said he was some sort of devil worshiper thinking it would somehow help her case. Needless to say, it came across as ridiculous as it sounds. So that night the band was out drinking and having a good laugh about it and came up with the name as a jab at her and her ridiculous accusation. The name stuck and here we are. I can’t speak for all of us but most don’t even believe in the devil haha. I know we threw around some other names at the time but I don’t remember much with all the debauchery going on at the time. I did throw in a name that I will still use eventually. I’ve always wanted to use Righteous Motherfuckers.
How long has the band been together?
We’ve been a band now for about six years.
Did it take long to get the sound you wanted?
Everything kinda fell right into place right from the get-go. Every song is all over the place with us. We have so many influences in common and not in this band.
What about songwriting? how do you get to complete a song? What’s the process that works for you guys?
Bill will usually come in with a song that’s pretty well complete musically, he plays it for the band and we start jamming, some things change and we have a tune. I usually come up with a melody first and write lyrics later. We have songs that Bill has written music, lyrics, and all for as well. I typically will not finish all lyrics until we’re about to record. There are videos from our first gigs and the lyrics aren’t even close to what ended up on the record.
I loved the debut album but it’s so expensive to import from the States will the next one have European distribution? Will the debut ever get a repress? maybe for a European tour?
We definitely want to make our records more available to the masses especially with the next record. At the moment we’re writing and concentrating on the new record and a Euro tour is always in the works. Covid took its toll on everyone and set everything back a bit but we have a good following in Europe and many friends spread throughout. You will definitely see us in the future.
You recently contributed to the Heavy Medication tribute album for New Bomb Turks. How did that come about? Any other covers you’ve recorded?
I’m not quite sure how it all started or who contacted who. Bill typically handles all that business but we’re huge fans of the band and the label rules. We hadn’t all been in the same room together in quite a while when we recorded that tune and I had some troubles having not sung in so long but we pushed through and got to be a part of a great record with many other awesome bands. As far as other covers, we recorded an Adam Ant tune for a split that didn’t happen but we’re now working on using it for a split with The Chuck Norris Experiment.
I love a good 7″ split and you guys recorded one always seems like a great idea to me for like-minded bands to do an EP together. Johny Manic is a great band but who else would you love to record a split with and what song of theirs would you do?
Personally, I would love to do a split with The Hookers out of my home state of Kentucky or The Dwarves. I’d love to do “Back Alley trash” I’m sure there are many artists between all of us that we’d love to do a split with.
How have you occupied your time as a band during lockdown?
We really didn’t as a band but Bill and Cheech kept busy with Night Cobra and Gil kept busy with Killer Hearts.
Any plans nailed down for post lockdown?
Looking forward to getting the next record written and getting our asses back out there.
Looking at your own role in the band what made you want to be in a band?
I’ve wanted to do this for as long as I can remember. When I first started, I was deathly shy and scared shitless but once the music started it was the best feeling I’ve ever had. I still have tons of anxiety before I play all the way up to the moment before that first guitar hits. The moment the music starts, it all goes away and I’m where I belong.
What instruments do you play and is there any musical role you’d like to master?
I honestly have owned guitars for thirty-plus years and have never mastered the instrument. I’ll stick to vocals haha.
What about in the studio, is it something you enjoy recording?
I’m the only one in the band that hates the studio. I’ve never been able to find that sweet spot, that natural feeling that you get while on stage. If I can find a way to channel all that attitude that I have on stage on this next record, look the fuck out. I plan on making it happen somehow some way this time. We have some great tunes for this next record that we’ve been playing live and they’ll stand up next to anything out there.
As for live – you’ve shared the stage with some great bands. What has impressed you individually about a particular band and what have you learned from others? Are there any bands you’d like to hit the road with?
We’ve played with so many of our favorites and have had nothing but great experiences with all of them. I learned to keep my shirt on from Eddie Spaghetti haha. I remember the first time we played with them he told someone in the band that “It was great until your singer took his shirt off” Hahaha.
I’d like to tour with The Dwarves or Electric Frankenstein. There are too many to name.
Finally, anything I’ve forgotten or should have asked you?
We don’t write love songs, we write songs about fucking, getting fucked, getting fucked up, and fucked up people. Very deep stuff. Haha.
“Spaghetty Town Records Circus”, five bands from three countries in the live music streaming event of October!
Even Spaghetty Town Records artists are itching to play live. So Teddy Spaghetty and Criminal Kids put together a roster of live music like no other. Fast Eddy, Killer Hearts, Pale Lips (Canada), Motosierra (Uruguay) and Criminal Kids will be live streaming on October 22, 2020 at 9pm ET / 6PM PT. Almost all new performances. An event of this scale can only be hosted by the Sleazegrinder of Classic Rock Magazine / Heavy Leather Topless Dance Party fame.
When asked about the event Teddy Spaghetty said “I can’t believe this is actually going to happen, many of our bands normally don’t have it together, but somehow pulled this off”. Over the last few months, each artist has been practicing up to bring you all the best live performances they can. The Spaghetty Town Records Circus will be streaming on Facebook and Youtube.
Mark your calendars! October 22, 9 pm ET/6 PM PT, Spaghetty Town Records are having the live music streaming event of the year, and it’s FREE! Live performances from Criminal Kids, Pale Lips, Killer Hearts, Fast Eddy and Motosierra. Hosted by the only person that replies to their emails, Sleazegrinder!
some of RPM Online favourite current rock and roll bands are heading to Town and we’ve cleared our diary -Will You?
RSVP Here
Another week comes to a crashing end and another week of pretty impressive singles get dumped on the RPM Singles Club dancefloor. The finest in wax, digital and video are here to tickle your taste buds and hopefully inspire you into finding your new favourite band. From all corners and alleyways of the world we search
Jenny – ‘Same’ (Wanda Records) When we saw that this band was fronted by LA Drugz Justin Maurer we had to go and crack it open and crank up the volume and from the first clashing chords of the harmonious ‘Stupid Band’ we smiled knowing we were in the presence of a power pop genius. But with five tunes on this release, it could only get better as the dreamy ‘Rose City’ took us in an upwards trajectory as far as moods go towards that layered vocal chorus it was already a must-have new record. ‘Cockroach Tea’ is more power-pop goodies leaning more towards the pop and then the 60s infused acoustic Thunders melodic ‘Alright With Me’ it has a really early Who mod like quality if it’s possible to mash up some Thunders, meets The Who if it’s not possible then it has just been invented.
To round it off there’s the acoustic ‘Song For Sadie’ an old Suspect PArts track but redone here making this a more eclectic offering than Maurers LA Drugz or Suspect Parts but none the less desirable. Don’t dilly dally as they say in the olden days get it here or on one sided vinyl 12″ from Wanda Records Here
Stiff Richards – ‘Going Numb’ (Legless Records) With two albums in the bag Australias Stiff Richards are hot property. If you managed to get a hold of their debut album first time around then you’re good if you managed to pick up a repress then, well-done pat yourself on the back. Then came ‘Dig’ which was also pretty spectacular to be fair and seemingly unable to do any wrong they sneak out this digital single to let us all know they’re still alive and ready to go (hopefully) with album number three due in October it looks like a winter assault from Melbourne’s finest and we can’t get enough from the southern hemisphere who are leading the way with some awesome punk rock.
Death By Unga Bunga – ‘Trouble’ (Jansen Records) The second in a series of new singles set to be released in the coming months. These Norweigan Nutters have got a slice of summer sunshine in the shape of ‘Trouble’ With a great hook over that steady beat its catchier than a global pandemic. once this one lodges itself into your head it’s not coming out and you’ll be muttering the lyrics for days wondering just who the hell it is. That’s Death By Unga Bunga that is and with the news of more to come there is light at the end of this pandemic that’s for sure and it’s coming from Norway and not some lab in England it might be power pop it might be death metal but one thing for sure it’ll have the DBUB logo on it. Get it here
Killer Hearts – ‘Get Some’ (Spaghetty Town Records) Houston we have a problem. We’re not getting enough Rock and Fucking Roll and that’s a problem. What isn’t a problem is when Killer Hearts this is the first glimpse of what’s coming on their long player ‘Skintight Electric’. Lots of loose riffs and oohs and arghs and some of the best sleazy Rock and Roll since Flash Boys and The Adjusters were about. Go Get some high octane Rock and Roll if you know what’s good for you! Buy Here
Guerrilla Teens – ‘Tell Me What To Do’ (Self Release) Another day another Guerrilla Teens record gets released via Bandcamp. This week’s offering is a right thumper by the name of ‘Tell Me What To Do’ backed by ‘Hurry Up’. One is in your face and bouncing on its toes like a young hooligan the other is a more laid back confident slow burner but both ooze quality and will make for awesome tracks when these weekly offerings finally get pressed by some awesome record label onto a slab of plastic to nestle alongside Those Humpers, Lovesores records you’ve got. buy Here
14 Units – ‘Listen’ (Self Release) This is the lockdown-busting debut release from 14 Units who cram five tunes into this debut EP, Five songs about drinking, getting old, murder, regret, not drinking and Brexit (possibly). opening with a neat uptempo twelve-bar with melody and somewhere between Frank Turner vocally and a cowpunk Quo. They get their jig on from a sprightly ‘Can’t Unlike You’ its melodic and uptempo and carries a decent melody. They certainly like to boogie and then they turn down for a more mellow knocking on heavens door progression for ‘Looks Like Rain’ which heads off down a Buffalo Tom wormhole and its probably the best track on offer with the sparse verse with just percussion before the guitars rejoin for the build-up to the chorus which is a catchy sing-along. A decent EP and first offering from 14 Units. Buy Here
Grindhouse – ‘Ramma Damma’ (Tuff Cuff Records) Melbourne must have something in the water because over the last couple of years its turning up some smoking hot records and this summer has seen that continue with those purveyors of pounding Rock and Roll Grindhouse are back in the room with some sweaty flesh pressing high octane Rock and Roll. in the shape of ‘Ramma Damma’ and ‘City High’ with its bruising riff-a-rama and moon the loon like drumming this is the dogs bollocks. If there ever was a sleeve that best described what was going on in the grooves before you ever played it then it’s this bad boy. or should that be bad girl? Rock and Roll can get you high so fuckin high and Grindhouse has the goods baby!
Relentlessly good band and with a new album on the way these are good times for fans of high octane Rock and Fuckin’ Roll Grindhouse Style. Bring it on. Buy it here
Girls In Synthesis – ‘They’re Not Listening’ (Harbinger Sound) Taken from the debut album ‘Now Here’s An Echo From Your Future’ this video will guarantee you a head fuck from the Jesus and mary chain feedback and the repetitive pounding to the strobe on the video GIS are fucking with you and that’s always a good thing. turn it up and then some more and get lost in that caustic guitar riff before the bass rumble nails you to the floor. Extreme music for extreme times uncompromising and uncomfortable just like punk rock should be. Like crass for the 2020s the album is due the end of the month. Let’s hope this isn’t the soundtrack to the apocalypse like my neighbours think it is.
Cutters – ‘Cutters’ (Legless Records) Another day another slice of punk rock from Down under. This time labelmates of Stiff Richards Cutters are here with this tasty three-track EP. With howls of feedback and a frantic hoof around your ears, this is relentless. ‘Chewed Up Fortune’ is first up and lead throat Al insists he wants to fuck and sleep in that order I guess. Cutters aren’t fucking around either with their Lo-‘Fi take it to the edge of reason and give it a good fuckin’ thrashing. If you think they would be spent after that opener then you’d obviously be wrong. ‘Robo Debt Blues’ is like Motorhead in their late 70s heyday knocking out some ANL and uk82 anthems and dragging through the Melbourne back streets before dropping them off at the studio. Nice!
But then they get all proggy on the five-minute headfuck frenzy of Twister’. Only yanking your chain the intro is painless before they go fuckin’ ape-like Venom meets the Exploited. Its frantic, Nasty, out of control and fuckin’ champion – Buy it here
Zip Gun Bomber – ‘Paper Aeroplanes EP’ (Rum Bar Records) Outta Cambridge, Massachusetts Zip Gun Bombers have been a thing since 2011 and with this being a revisited yup, you guessed it its a new improved take on that EP. Sure its a Nostalgic trip for that early 90’s era Lookout! Records and all things Green Day. ZipGun Bomber’s ‘Paper Airplanes’ EP embraces and embodies all of that. From the opening of ‘Chase That Feeling’ to the acoustic closing of ‘Paper Airplanes’, its easy on the ear pop-punk where the lyrics are easy to embrace and before you know it you’ll be singing the songs like they’ve always been on your playlist. Well worth checking out if any of the previous words ever meant anything to you jump in and lose yourself in the tunes. Sure there is a familiarity here but it’s only pop-punk Rock and Roll and I like it! Oh and if you like you can download the EP for free or name your price. Pick it up Here
Science Man – ‘Match Game’ (Swimming Faith Records) Punk as fuck – a 7″ single with not 2 or 3 songs on it but nine slabs of uncompromising head mashing industrial hardcore. Science Man from Buffalo NY isn’t here to compromise he’s here to lay out his manifesto and from the opening repetitive thump of ‘Tiny Tower’ it’s game on through the frantic thirty-two seconds of ‘Steal The Street’. Don’t leave the fuckin room for gawds sake.
‘Surge’ sounds like the cassette on a Commadore 64 or finally, the aliens are coming. At times it sounds like out of control chaos but I suspect it’s far from that and the almost prog length of the final track ‘Cursed’ clocking in at almost two minutes is a challenge but industrial hardcore isn’t meant to be easy listening, I’m sure only the hearty punk amongst us will endure or even get this straight off. But its certainly interesting as well as a challenging listen.
S V & the Eruptions – ‘Tomorrows Promises’ (Avenue Recordz) An altogether more sombre and thoughtful SV & The Eruptions, It’s not all cheeky chappies and a bit of slap and tickle it can’t be. Here SV busts out a mid-paced thoughtful number with a big catchy chorus that drops back into the muted guitar work and into another tuneful verse. A most excellent twist and shows how versatile and downright bloody good these gents are. I have told him myself the tunes you aren’t expecting are some of his best work and this will grow and grow and in time will be one of those late in the set anthems you look forward to. Excellent song with great vocals.
Ryan Hamilton & Kay Hanley – ‘Oh No’ This dropped last minute so we thought we’d include it in the singles Club because we love some Ryan Hamilton.
The Fuzzstainz – ‘Sick! Sick! Sick!'(Beluga Records) How could we sign off this week’s singles Club without dropping in on Scandinavia Again. Always reliable, Always churning out quality Rock and Roll from all the corners of the world Beluga Records have released this banging 7″ platter with two tracks of sizzling Garage Punk courtesy of The Fuzzstainz. The lead track is sick – no it literally is sick! those guitars sound like razor blades trying to cut through some barbed wire. But it’s catchy and easy to sing along to but the best is yet to come in the shape of ‘Thinkin’ ‘Bout Me’ again the same standards are set but with added floor tom and is that a buzzsaw? Gawd knows but its got swagger and I love it. Pick it up here
we’ve reviewed their EP and shown the video before but we felt it was time you kids got some Rock and Roll forced down your ear canal and course through your veins again. It’s available on Spaghetty Town Records or via their Bandcamp Go Get some
Seconds out round two. How about something from these crazy bastards Mother vulture punk / blues they call it so why not get a fix.
Finally, our new squeeze at RPMHQ is Queen Zee and their crossover punk meets pop meets WTF. Its just Rock and Roll folks go fill yer boots.
What an epic mixed bag this month’s singles are. We delve into hardcore territory with some killer singles EP’s and downloads that raise an eyebrow or two as well as dip our toes into indie and alternative goodness but the one thing we can assure you is we review quality and if its on RPM 45’s then you really should give a fuck and go check em out you might just find your new favourite band. We’ve covered this months feature with two absolute belting slabs of hardcore from both sides of the pond in Asbestos Beach and Cheasty Malone and we also have the finest power pop with the brand new More Kicks who can’t put a foot wrong with their releases so far. There is also some top-notch Grunge vibes hitting the death decks this month in the shape of Hellebore and Weekend Recovery who expand the envelope for us and most welcome they are too. Cock Rock in the house as well in the shape of Piston and opening up some Killer Punk Rock N Roll in the shape of Killer Hearts… Boy I love my job. 1-2-3-4 take it away guys…
Killer Hearts -Killed By Volume EP (Gods Candy Records/Spaghetty Town Records) Its like a seal of approval currently if your record is released on Gods Candy or Spaghetty Town you the listener don’t need to hear it just hand over your money because you know its going to be quality rock n Roll and Killer Hearts brand new EPs the latest in that conveyer belt of Rock n Roll goodness.’Do Your Thang’ is first up and what a horn honkin slab of killer Rock n Roll it is. It’s snotty – it’s rockin’ – it’s like the bastard sons of The Dead Boys and Bon Scott Iggy Pop and Thin Lizzy that’s the pedigree these guys are mainlining. Four tracks that just sizzles with attitude like the sound you want a band of Rock n Roll outlaws to make. Another fantastic four tracks that we highly recommend you check out with immediate effect. FacebookGods Candy RecordsSpaghetty Town Records
Chesty Malone & The Slice EM Ups – Satanic Brooklyn Scum (1332 Records) fuck me it’s been way too long since I had a slice of Chesty Malone across my record player. They don’t so much come creepy crawling back to life but more like a hybrid punk slam dance from speaker to speaker in a rapid quick fire in your face slice of slice em up’s. ‘Cannibal Girl’ is hardcore and right up in your grill – have some of that boys n girls I’ve missed em. ‘Everybody Hates Me’ is pure Noo Yawk hardcore – barking like a rabid dog they should hook up with Pizzatramp for an Atlantic crossover of hardcore throw down it would be carnage. They have saved the best til last though in fairness with a more menacing and measured number ‘Satanic Brooklyn Scum’ might just be the bands finest three and a half minutes to date. Welcome back you lot we’ve missed you. Its like Venom jamming on Bloodclot or early slayer playing Madball tunes. Nah it’s like Chesty Malone doing what the do best and slicing up the opposition. Killer EP. Buy it here off the label or head over to Chesty Malone Website
Vegasettes – Lose Sight (Self Release) It’s loud its brash its Vegasette. sighting the likes of the Foo Fighters is a bit wide of the mark for me as this is louder than that and more of a hard-rockin’ riffarama affair. The opening track is built over a big riff as it forges on with a big melody on the vocals with plenty of punch. ‘Breathe’ is altogether a different beast with a big riff its a slow burner but gets there, in the end, we always love a gang vocal and Vegasettes have got one. A promising introduction from these UK based rockers.
Mozes & The Firstborn – Sad Supermarket Song (Burger Records) This video is taken off his new long player ‘Dadcore’ that was released a few weeks ago. the band play See them live at The Shacklewell Arms, London, March 12th as part of their European tour. with a blend of power pop and a more alternative sound it has a commercial edge for sure but is a very listenable tune from a very impressive album. Check em out Here
More Kicks – I’m On The Brink (Wanda Records) Ok Rock n Rollers here’s the brand new single from Londons very own power pop rock n rollers kicking out the jams on this fine pair of tunes. Do you want energy? Do you want melody? Do you want some exciting Rock n Roll? Well, jump on board because More Kicks are the real deal. Available on several coloured records from Wanda Records this is a must own record. The A-side is a fantastically crafted slab of rock n roll as it makes your heart glow and your toes tap just what a 45 should sound like. Whilst the B-Side is a little faster it’s just more of the same. These gents really do know how to craft great rock n roll and then the hard part of capturing the magic but once again they’ve done it. Get down and get with it kids More Kicks should be huge. Now with two singles down how about that long player? Wanda RecordsBandcamp
Pizzatramp / Domestics (self Release) As usual these boys don’t do things by halves and decide to release a spilt that clocks in at less that one minute! yup, one minute if there is such a thing as a ten-second love song then ‘I Went On A Double Funded Kickstarter Holiday To The United States Of America And All I Brought Back Was This Shitty Fucking Album’ isn’t it. Yup, it takes longer to type the song title than the song lasts and we know what its about but c’mon guys that’s just plain nasty. We love Pizzatramp and we love that they do things their own way and we should be the ones to suggest that we all get together and have a group hug because things won’t seem so bad after we’re all loved up or something like that. Sure it’s shouty and its fast as fuck but its Pizzatramp so what did you expect a Bon Jovi cover? Bandcamp
The Gala – Boy (Dead Beat Records) Some down n dirty sleazy rock n roll ala NY Loose with some smart keys in their mix thats what you get from the Gala. With a rumbling bass line and swirling organ, this back street rock n roll tune is a great introduction to their soon to be released long player ‘Bad News’. If this single is an indication of what’s on offer then ‘Bad News’ is a must hear deal from Bostons the Gala because they’ve got the chops boy.
Hellebore – The Bomb EP (Self Release) Three tracks from Nottingham noisemakers sitting somewhere between The Pixies, PJ Harvey and Esterons With three tracks that have a foot in the alt scene of the early ’90s call it post-grunge or just plain indie but what they have done is craft three different tracks from the dreamy edges to the noisy feedback-laden moments not a million miles from PJ Harvey on ‘Swimming In’.
The title track ‘The Bomb’ is the pick of the three with an aggressive edge but always just under control. Well worth checking out if you’ve ever had a passing hankering for well crafted indie rock. Passionate and clearly in it for the love of the music that much shines through check them out on Facebook and Bandcamp and pick up a copy of ‘The Bomb’. Facebook
Sick Bags – Cigarette Spit (Self Release) Richmond punks Sick Bag knock out three super sleazy slabs of Punk Rock N Roll. ‘Cigarette Spit’ is like The Runaways playing Ramones its got a big dollop of Toilet Boys thrown in for good measure so what’s not to like? ‘Die In California’ is more of the same. If you don’t like this then you have to question yourself and what you’re doing with your life. Sick Bag are wonderful. Trashy glitter punk is a thing of beauty when its done properly and Sick Bag certainly do that. I think I’d have my money on these cats in a street fight with Amyl & The Sniffer. Oh and the third track on offer ‘Bandit Baby’ is um kinda more of the same just with a different solo but it puts its lipstick on with a switchblade knife. Check em out you’ll love em. Bandcamp
Liily – I Can Fool Anybody In This Town (Flush Records) Alt-rockers Lilly hail from San Fernando Valley and are a causing a bit of a stir with their tunes and for a bunch of teens they are way ahead of the curve with a sound that bands twice their age can’t capture. The lead track reminds me a bit of Japan and their alt-rock roots but there is a lot more to this band than one style. They embrace several genres and can rock out with the big boys when they need to. Interesting times and interesting band, one to keep an eye on. Buy Liily Here
The Magic Lotus – Change The World (Animal Farm) London based two piece make alternative rock their weapon of choice are back with a measured slice of pop-rock with an emphasis on the harmony and melody.
Asbestos Beach – Tape (Self Release) But it has eight tracks that’s not a single I hear you say. Yeah but eight-track in around ten minutes like having a dentist drill rammed through the side of your head I think its fair to say that these Glaswegian hardcore loons have a single length release if that’s alright with you?
The artwork to this release pretty much sums up what you’re hearing. It’s like Bloodclot meets Mayhem but in a Glasgow park after dark whilst pouring Buckfast into your eyes. Harcore as fuck uncompromising – tight as fuck and like a rabid dog you just can’t or want to shake off. fuckin’ ace! I couldn’t pick a favourite that would be futile just enjoy it for what it is. A fuckin’ beautiful racket, well done Asbestos Beach ‘Tape’ wins. Name your price on Bandcamp
Piston – One More Day (Self Release) Five Piece Rockers Piston have this brand new video available its taken from their forthcoming debut album that is being released in yonder well September to be exact so its a hell of a lead-in from here. The song is commercial enough to have widespread appeal for the band with a bit of Billy Duffy in the riff and guitar sound as well as enough Backyard Babies Piston have an interesting few months ahead methinks. Good luck gents.
Weekend Recovery – Bite Your Tongue (Self Release) Four tracks on the brand new Weekend Recovery EP with a sound that’s sharp – well produced it crosses a few genres from the harsh guitar overdrive to the strong melodies on the vocals the band have crafted the songs possibly most noted on ‘On My Knees’ and ‘I’m Not That Girl’ which starts off quiet and moves purposefully as the band builds around the chorus for the pick of the tracks on offer.
In a post Grunge sound, I can see the band reaching a wide audience on the strength of these tunes and a really strong performance on vocals as Lorin excels and turns in a great performance. There is certainly a bit of My Chemical Romance in this the way the song flows and its easily the pick of the four on offer. Good effort indeed.
Tiger Touch – Hawthorne Boogie (Tyrannical Volts) Sneaking in at the eleventh hour is Tiger Touch from Portland & here at RPM we’re so glad they did because this two track 7″ is dominating our airwaves. Its a slice of Action Rock ‘n’ fuckin Roll that smoulders along and has a real touch of class from the opening chord right through to that sweet Angus like solo. Hawthorne Boogie never goes over the top crazy but there is a menace there that’s just bubbling under which makes for a classy tune. The B side is an altogether different beast with its rapid stomping rhythm. A classic slice of attitude fueled rock n roll. A single that will interest a lot of RPM readers. Love the snippet of ‘Search And Destroy’ if you’re going to reference anyone might as well make it the best. Excellent record!
Bromide – Magic Coins (Scratchy Records) HAving some pretty lofty praise heaped on this English Three piece ‘Magic Coins’ ebbs and flows between indie heavyweights Dinosaur Jr and Teenage Fanclub for the melodies and power chords. It’s not without merit I know that much and whilst they might not be up there with Beach Slang they’re certainly sneaking up on the outside especially with songs like the hypnotic ‘Always Now’. I like it and want to hear more. Facebook
To finish off this roundup of great singles I’m going to just leave this beauty here, enjoy!
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