Those Bosstown Garage Punk legends are still at it writing and recording brand new music and releases. The Dogmatics will have a proper full new release out in 2024 and to whet our fans appetites until then and to also provide new music while “The Dogmatics: A Dogumentary” continues being added to film festivals across the globe we will be dropping a brand new digital single release t coincide with A Dogumentary screening at the Orlando Film Festival: https://www.offvirtual.com/films
Heres an audio visual exclusive for you from the good folks at Rum Bar Records.
Check out the trailer from their barking mad movie
RPM Online is super stoked to be asked to be the first to air the video for ‘City’ by Long Beach Band The Legendary Swagger. Suitably dripping with Rock n Roll attitude and hanging on a cool punk n roll vibe ‘City’ is catchy and anthemic. Hit em up on Facebook Here
Taken from the album Gypsies, Junkies and Thieves released in 2022 on vinyl by PMRC, and on CD by Rum Bar Records.
Head over to Rum Bar Records Bandcamp page and check out The Legendary Swagger along with a host of other cool bands like RPM Online favourites Richard Duguay, The Dogmatics, Brad Marino and JJ & The Real Jerks who’ve just released their first record on Rum Bar. Rum Bar Records Bandcamp Page Anyway, here is the video so hit it up and turn it up! Like Share Follow. keep it RPM Online
Honest blue-collar rock n roll written and played from the heart with passion and as much gusto as you could muster, that would be my assumption of the Legendary Swagger that features Geoff Yeaton on Vocals & Honking Saxophone, Skot Pollok on six sring Guitars, Joe Jennings also on Guitars and Vocals. Dino Everett thumping the Bass and Vocals and finally Richie Mendez on the Drums, so it’s no shock that this has quality running through its veins from a beating heart of true Punk n Roll quality.
Take ‘She’ with its horn-honking slice of Rock and Roll it’s like the best of the E Street band and a dash of California for good measure. Saxophone in this punk rocking swagger is such an underrated addition to the rich tapestry of Rock n Roll from Hanoi rocks to JJ & The Real Jerks, Springsteen, Jesse Malin and X Ray Spex they all have something Xtra in their DNA that adds swing and this record has got that.
‘I’m On The Outside’ has a strong melody and cool chorus with its Social Distortion swagger from those chunky riffs to the gravel in the vocals – its rich and full bodies. ‘City’ has got that Steve Jones overdrive going on and with some familiar licks it’s such a cool song. It may lack originality but who gives a shiny shit when it’s got the tone and drive and your toes are tappin’ it’s job done for me. This is quality from a band of seasoned pros who know their way around a top tune and this is oozing quality all over the damn record.
Listen, if it’s on Rum Bar then odds on its going to be quality and I’d take that to the bank. The tunes just keep on coming as ‘Convicted’ crashes and bangs into ‘City’ the quality is plateauing out with a solid groove and some fantastic arrangements as this Rock n Roll keeps giving. It’s hard to come up with superlatives that do justice to a record but the quality is in the name of this one the legends have got a tonne of swagger and it’s banger after banger be it just punching out a rocker or giving it some swing The Legendary Swagger has it going on baby and I love it!
I love the acoustic sunshine of ‘Circles’ with its laid-back groove it rolls along towards that inevitable gang vocal chorus that has you smiling because you know this is damn good. There are chops on ‘Beautiful Disaster’ that travel the world and back it’ll get its hooks in and you’ll be craving some more of this it’s addictive rock n fuckin roll that’s for sure.
An album that might go under the radar but one I stress you should check out and play loud – it’ll iknock you off your socks and one you can thank me later for introducing you to – Buy It & tell yer mates.
WE’ve been big fans and supporters of Rum Bar for as long as we can remember and their ability to keep churning out quality releases is a breath of fresh air. Their passion and quality is their seal of approval and one of their best bands just happens to be Cheap Cassettes. This is a new video taken from their brand new album available Here
Black Bombers – ‘Last Bite’ (Easy Action) there is an air of confidence and an overwhelming sense of quality when the guitar chimes in on this new single from Birmingham’s finest. Channeling the spirit of Stivs Lords and the cool of Killing Joke with its howling guitars and haunting rhythm it’s a smoldering smokestack of a tune and as it reaches the guitar solo, it gives you goosebumps as the band reaches the climax before dropping back into the groove on what is a most excellent single. It’s taken a while to reach your turntables due to covid but this one has had a couple of years to ferment into this beast of noise. Flip it over and you get treated to a rather splendid version of ‘Take My Money’ from the Damned criminally overlooked second album ‘Music For Pleasure’. What a killer tune ‘Last Bite’ is and thats why its the pick of the pops for the month no question about it! Cool tunes and cool artwork – if only all 7″ singles were this good. Buy Here
Buzzcocks – ‘Senses Out Of Control’ (Cherry Red Records) The songs to emerge from the post-Shelley Buzzcocks are creeping out after the covid hibernation and ‘Senses Out Of Control’ is a lovely slice of Diggle fire and brimstone. Uptempo and out of control as Diggle fires up the telecaster and smashes the chords out of the speakers for what is your typical Diggle Buzzers tune (effectively) I’m not going to debate the should it be released under the Buzzcocks banner or not but I will say it pretty bloody decent to be fair. Live it will sound punchy and brutal but there is a huge Shelley-shaped hole happening. The B sides to this lovely 10″ record also feature the tracks ‘Carnival Of Illusion’ that tackles cancel culture in a more measured track. But the diamond in the rough here is the excellent ‘Hope Heaven Loves You’ with a great meandering guitar line. Sure to become a collector’s piece these two tracks won’t be on the album when it’s released this summer so fill yer boots. Buy Here
Suzi Moon – ‘Animal’ (Pirates Press Records) Hot on the heels of her debut EP Suzi Moon unleashes ‘Animal’ her latest EP on Pirates PRess and this time it rips out of the blocks with the super turbocharged ‘Sonic Attraction’. Her debut album ‘Dumb & In Luv’ is due this summer and if this trio of tunes is anything to go by then it’s going to be an absolute blast. the title track is a brooding, twisting, rhythm meandering along before the guitars crash in on the chorus when Moon declares she’s a fucking animal you better believe it. To wrap up this EP Moon indulges some power pop tinged punk rock on ‘Gold Record Autograph’ its another string to her bow. With a vibrant melody, the chorus is fuckin’ excellent and like a bubble gummed chorus Moon knows shes is onto something, and surely it’s only a matter of time before she sells out venues globally and she’ll have her very own Gold Record. Get it here
Flickertail – ‘Don’t You Let Me (Let You Down)‘ (Golden Robot Records) Irish Aussie rockers FLICKERTAIL release new single ‘Don’t You Let Me (Let You Down’ on 29th March, out on Golden Robot Records. liftedfrom the upcoming live EP ‘Afterlife‘, which is slated for release mid-year. The track features sizzling guitars, high-paced lyrics about parties and poor decisions and a balls-to-the-wall drum solo that could make John Bonham blush.Pre-order/add/save ‘Don’t You Let Me (Let You Down)’HERE
Chuck Norris Experiment – ‘Where Eagles Dare’ (Self Release) By no means a new tune but a new version from the mighty CNE as they lay into the Misfits classic. CNE gets the tempo and rawness of the song and capture it perfectly. Free Rock n Fucking Roll – yes please. Fill yer boots and if you already haven’t got yourself on board this is the perfect opportunity. Get it Here
WolfWolf & The Tuzemak Orchestra – ‘Monster’ (Lux Noise Records) For fans of the Bop n stroll Blues rock n roll of Urban Voodoo Machine, Wolf Wolf make an impressive mind-bending noise on this new single ‘Monster’ where they team up with The Tuzemak Orchestra: https://www.wolfwolfband.com
J Prozac – ‘Building Blocks’ (Rum Bar Records) Another band rolls off the Rum Bar conveyer belt and onto our stereos. This time its heart-worn sleeve heartland punk & garage rock from J Prozac. while still keeping the big hearted ‘whoa ohs’, snotty vocals and powerful punk rock guitar riffs of his former bands in check. It’s a memoir, diary, and photo book of lost but not forgotten moments, anthemic pop-punk lifted from the new album ‘Building Blocks’ is punk rock with a smile. Get the album Here
The Brokendolls – ‘The Only’ (Lux Noise Records) Lifted from the bands upcoming album ‘Snakecharmer’ Hard Rocking Punk N Roll sees the Brokendolls impress and march to the top of the pile giving the likes of Backyard Babies a run for their money with this new track. If the rest of the album can live up to these expectations then it promises to be a belter!
These Arms Are Snakes – ‘Camera Shy’ (Suicide Squeeze Records) US hardcore gents These Arms Are Snakes have announced a new rarities album called ‘Duct Tape & Shivering Crows’ which will be released April 15th so they have this video for the first single.
Ultrabomb – ‘Star’ (Ultrabomb Records) Greg Norton, once the driving force behind one of the most influential bands to emerge from the American punk scene, Hüsker Dü, alongside Finny McConnell, a name you’ll recognise from thirty years as the frontman of the Canadian Irish folk-punk sensation The Mahones. Completing the trio is the drumming powerhouse Jamie Oliver, having served well over fifteen years in the seminal British punk band UK Subs, as well as shorter stints with the likes of SNFU among others. Written for the singer’s daughter this is quality alternative punk rock. this second single has hints of Early Buffalo Tom and The Replacements which is always a good thing. With an album out soon the future looks written for Ultrabomb. Buy Here
Rough Gutts – ‘Control’ (Boss Tunage) From the ashes of Rotten Foxes Rough Gutts have only gone and made a record and if this video is anything to go by the Brighton rockers are gonna blow away everyone in 2022. Tour dates and a record out of control punk rock n fuckin roll is back in business and Rough Gutts are gonna rule – get on it kids before they’re all gone.
The Lickerish Quartet – ‘ Fortunately’ (Stranger Danger Records) The first song from Threesome Vol. 3, ‘Fortunately’ is Set for release May 20 on Stranger Danger Records and Tapes, distributed by Burnside and the Orchard in the U.S. and by Lojinx in the U.K. and Europe. Sony Japan recently partnered with THE LICKERISH QUARTET to release all three EPs on June 29, as a collection entitled ‘FABLES FROM FEARLESS HEIGHTS’, which will include two previously unheard cover songs, as well as a special “best of” vinyl LP in that region. Pre-orders can be found Here
The SoapGirls – ‘Breathe’ The SoapGirls consist of French-born, South African-raised sisters Noemie Debray (Mie) (guitar, vocals) & Camille Debray (Mille) (bass guitar, vocals) The fearless siblings began their music career as child street performers at ages 8 and 9,roaming the streets of Cape Town singing whilst selling handmade soap for charity, earning the name ‘The SoapGirls’. ‘Breathe’ is the first single from soon to be released 4th album ‘In My Skin’. It’s a load of energy with the uncompromising style and attitude & all the excessive, debauched live shows have paid dividends. The pair have gained quite a reputation through their live shows such as Rebellion & Camden Rocks.
You can catch the pair as Their Don’t Give A Damn tour kicks off in the UK in April at Nambucca on the 15th before heading to Europe, followed by the US in July & Japan in August.
Continental Lovers – Really Doesn’t Matter’ (Snap Records) It’s been a while in the making but Joe has finally got round to dropping the first proper tune from the Continental Lovers and what a banger it is. A toe tapper, a ear worm, sweet baby jesus call it what you like but just check it out. Going back to his time as a Breakdown Joe knows what it takes to write a catchy ditty thats not up for debate, This has all the best elements of the songs from the mid 70s that had a bit of boogie woogie, a smash pop melody and the “worth its weight in gold” chorus. Joe knows all of that and can articulate it in a three minute pop song. Check it out in the lyric video and pre order the single as soon as and jump on board for what will no doubt be one of the best albums released this year. you Snooze – you looze innit! Record of the week? Bang on it is! You’ll be able to stream it in the next few weeks and Snap Records will have a limited 7″ soon. Can’t wait!
Moron’s Moron – ‘White Brothel Creepers’ (Wanda Records) Raised on a steady diet of ‘Methods’ by the Lords Of The New Church, The Humpers & a heap of other glamourous punk rock royalty this three-track single is an absolute blast. Raising all kinds of glorious, unbridled noise that is like ear candy at RPM HQ. All three tracks hack and slash a wonderful noise of sloppy, 77 punk rock with enough Roll to whet the appetite for a full-length album from these reprobates. Lawless Dick Stingher, Turd Awesome, John Pauly Shore II and Philo Phuckphace (Best band names ever) are just about the single of the week around here no question about that. Absolute banger. Buy Here
Split System – ‘Split System’ (Legless Records) We all know there has been a plethora of talent tumbling out of the dirt of the Australian back street over the last few years – weened on a steady diet of The Saints, Radio Birdman, Cosmic Psychos and the hard-ons. Well Split System tap into that and turn it into something pretty special. Fronted by Jackson Reid Briggs and features current darlings of the scene Stiff Richards very own Arron Mawson on guitar this is four most excellent tracks ripping it up with some old school proto-punk style and a hefty slug of Garage rock just for good measure. Get on it kids before the prices go through the roof on Discogs. Here
Ryan Hamilton – ‘Free Falling’ (Wicked Cool Records) A pretty honest and true to the original cover of Tom Petty’s 1989 hit, Free Fallin, sees Ryan performed all instrumentation and vocals, also mastered at Abbey Road Studios. Of the track, Ryan says, “This song is hallowed ground, & I’m so proud of this version I’ve recorded. Plus, it got mastered at Abbey Road, which feels like magic.” The release is the first since Ryan’s ‘1221 project’, which hit #9 on the Indie Albums Breakers on the Official UK Charts and has been accepted into Record Store Day in April. orcd.co/freefallin
Tramp – ‘Jailbait’ (Wanda Records) Wow do you kiss yer grandma with that mouth? Tramp are kicking up a filthy sleazy Dolls meet Jayne County slice of Punk Rock n Roll and we like it. Of course we like it. Viki Venom, Suzi Sleeze and Joey Deuce from dreamy New Hampshire, USA kick up some Slut Rock (why wouldn’t it be slut rock?) It’s trashy it’s obnoxious and sleazy and these punks have turned the amps up and thump those cans and chew out the rhythm with their bubblegum vocals and it’s the first taste of Tramp and I hope not the last. Wanda has the 7″ records but it’s limited – Get on ya filthy rats! Here
Infamous Stiffs – The Lockdown EP (Riot Records) SoCal punk rockers, Infamous Stiffs, are back with a six song live EP, “Lockdown Live”, their second release on Riot Records/Golden Robot Records, available for pre-order/add/save, Made in 2021 at the height of the global Covid 19 pandemic at Alex’s Bar in Long Beach, California, “Lockdown Live” is what happens after a year of…well, being locked down. Rife with pent-up energy and aggression, the results of this experiment speak for themselves. Catchy, hard and unforgiving, “Lockdown Live” offers a real-time perspective on the songs and of the current state of affairs. It’s a little something to chew on during these lean times of uncertainty and the doldrums we all face.
Nashville Pussy – ‘Come On Come On’ (Bandcamp) Boogie on Brothers and Sisters Nashville Pussy style that is. As featured on PEacemaker this is causing a stir. James Gunn knows his Rock and Roll it would seem as he’s peppered the Peacemaker show with top-quality tunes from Hanoi Rocks, Quireboys and this bad boy Come On Fuck yeah! is just about this tune in a nut shell – Banging and right on the fuckin money – Kerching!!!!. Here
Placebo – ‘Happy BirthdayIn The Sky’ ( A very understated typically Placebo dreamy track. It’s about time we had a new release from Placebo, it’s been too long. ‘Happy Birthday’ builds to the chorus from a hushed muted and restrained verse then hits the chorus in typical Placebo fashion before it drops back into a very laid-back vibe.
I Always look forward to a new Placebo record and this does the job of piquing the interest. The album ‘Never Let Me Go’ is out March 25, 2022 – pre-order now here: https://lnk.to/Placebo-NeverLetMeGo
Soul Glo – ‘Driponomics’ feat. Mother Maryrose(Epitaph) Philly-based hardcore band Soul Glo release their latest single, “Driponomics,” ahead of their fourth studio album ‘Diaspora Problems’ due out on March 25th. It’s a scathing commentary on capitalism and economic disparity. listing popular designers and brands in between a screeching distortion and a heavy bassline. The track also features a verse from fellow Philly native, rapper Mother Maryrose. Reminds me a bit of Disposable Heroes of Hiphopracy – engaging and one that gets under your skin.
The Dirty Truckers – ‘I Feel Nothing’ (Rum Bar Records) Rock n Roll baby. Sweet as, The Dirty Truckers just cruise on by with their radio-friendly distorted beer-drinking brand of Rock and Roll. With a hummable melody and cool guitar licks they know they’re good at this power Poppin garage thang and your ears will be grateful for the introduction. Like Tom Baker says Turn it up it always sounds better when you block out everything else and just give yourself up to the Rock and Roll.
Join me in the singles bar dropping coins into the jukebox and hitting up another round of Dirty Truckers tunes before the album gets released. Like the seal of approval coming out on Rum Bar Records you know it’s gonna rule! Now bring on ‘The Tisbury Joneser’
Faz Waltz – ‘Hot Cold Fever’ (Snap Records Spaghetty Town Records/Surfin’ Ki) ITs Rock and Roll alright. Loud and proud this is a throw back with a wild back beat, honkingly good ivory tinkling and a trad howling good time in every aspect from Faz Waltz. A real hoot where these cats tip the hat to the original rollers from yesteryear. If you think the A side is a hoot then flip this bad boy over for ‘Lotta Lovin’ with its big bopper, jerry Lee thumper. Do yourself a favour though turn this fucker up! then turn it up some more. you deserve it and they deserve it. Get on it and just jive kids! Buy Here
With Christmas fast aproaching we thought it was time to swing open the doors of the RPM Online singles Club and see who strolls in. We weren’t disappointed as the mixed bag of miscreants waltzed in. With out most diverse bunch yet theres plenty to ponder from our staple favs to some wide ranging inclusions check em out at your leisure…
DIRT BOX DISCO – ‘Fuck me it’s all Gone Wrong’ (AVENUE RECORDZ) Hey Hey it’s a Dirtbox Day, Fuck Me its only Dirtbox Disco damaging my ears with their Motorhead infused punk rock n roll.
Of course its a banger as it lodges in your head and you can’t get rid of the gang vocal chorus for days and you find yourself saying fuck me at every oportunity. Its got a catchy chorus of course it has, It’s to the point and its got guitars that are razor sharp and Maff is kicking the shit out of his tubs. Dirtbox are back in the ring and doing what they do better than anyone else. Loud and proud and right on the money! Its all gone right more like.
Available in the following formats -
Digital download and streaming.
split 7" with issue 13 of SAFETY PIN MAGAZINE
JOHNNY CASINO -‘Another Girl’ (Golden Robot Records) This is the first single from his February 2022 release ‘5×7 the Days of Wine and Cola‘ ‘Another Girl’ started out as a moody acoustic piece until it found its way into the recording studio on the Costa Blanca in Spain. Here, a fire had been lit underneath it, a couple of bottles of wine poured all over it and an inspired electric guitar burned into it by Johnny and his band. There is a san fran vibe about it as well maybe is in the vocals but whatever its a great tune and if the rest of the record is up to this standard then bring it on. The solo is blistering.
Mickey Leigh’s Mutated Music – ‘No Fun Anymore’ (Wicked Cool Records) A thumping good tune. Though Mickey Leigh has been making music for over five decades, 2022 sees his first solo full-length release under the name Mickey Leigh’s Mutated Music. Growing up the brother of Joey Ramone, If this is the standard of what we can expect from his first solo album, ‘Variants of Vibe’, in February 2022 then bring it on. The first single, ‘No Fun Anymore’ is like the bastard child of Stiv Bators solo material and a real Rock and Roll tonic packed with energy and a strong hook get this on your new years wish list. hit it up here
Kurt Baker – Christmas In The Sand (Wicked Cool Records)The first of two singles from Kurt Baker this round-up ‘Christmas in the sand’ was inspired by Kurt and his longtime collaborator and bandmate, Wyatt Funderburk’s, experience writing the song in the cold weather of Maine. He said, “It’s a song about wanting to be at the beach during Christmas time! If only we lived in the southern hemisphere, haha!” The original version of the song was released in 2012, but 2021 saw the band revisit the song and “kick it up a notch.” I’m sure you’ll agree it has all the hallmarks of a crimbo classic. Get it on the playlist at the office party and turn it up its got sleigh bells n everything – Check it out Here
Night Courts! ‘Fractions’ (Snappy Little Numbers /Debt Offensive Records) Second video/single by Vancouver lo-fi indie/punk trio NIGHT COURT from their debut release Nervous Birds! is a right little earworm as it burrows in and unsuspecting throughout the day week you want to hear it again and again. Infectious? sure is. Check it out in the video below. Get into them here
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tifahzarjFQ&t=7s
Edweena Banger – ‘Let’s Do It’ (self Release) Album number two on the horizon this first glimpse of what to expect is a right banger (no pun intended) sizzling Rock and Roll with a big hook is the order of the day and one we fully endorse here at RPM Online. Connect with Edweena Here
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QL2ccPg6HOM
Kurt Baker – ‘Turn It Around’ (Wicked Cool Records) wow Kurt Baker is in da house and he’s burning it down with this banger of a tune. A rapid stab of powerpoppin punk rock oozing attitude with a thumping backbeat. Of course it’s got a bloomin’ great big hook on the chorus but it’s got a warm winter fuzz going on from the kickoff. Another day another thumping good song released from Kurt Baker
Swedish Magazines – ‘Head On Ice’(Rubber Records) If you know you simply know. Melbourne rockers Sweedish Magazines are dropping bombs off their new album ‘I Wish Life Could Be’ and this is the latest – full of barroom Malcolm Young fire it barrels along like a bouncing bomb with boundless energy before smashing in your ear with an explosive chorus that makes your toes tap and your head move back and fore. Fantastic tune and one that makes you want to hear more and on this track they hit a groove and ride the shit out of it. If you want a catagory for this then punk n boogie would be apt as they mix Bon era DC with some punk rock SLF style. Whats not to like – excellent stuff.
Cheap Cassettes – ‘She Aint Nothing Like You’ (Rum Bar Records) Hell Yeah! the first glimpse under the hood of the new album from Candas Cheap Cassettes is a slow grooving rock and rolla and with great subtle gang harmonies these cats are back in the saddle and make this grooving rock and roll seem effortless from the clear melodic guitar break to the subtle late night overdrive they make great bedfellows with The Speedways from the UK and mixing up some Georgia Sattelites its such a cool tune that gets me excited for the album when it hits the shelves.
Chew Manga – ‘Listless’ (Stray Cat Records) full phat and fuzzy. This rocket-fueled slice of alternative rock is the first glimpse into the world of Chew Manga. Not heard these guys before but this Manchester mob has got some cool ideas and mix it up on single with a catchy hook and some great playing making for a most listenable tune and a pretty good introduction to the band. Check it out Here
Tony Iommi – ‘Scent Of Dark’ It might not be a crimbo single (Thank god) but this is the new release from Sabbath Guitar God Tony Iommi and as the video testifies it’s a slow brooding grinding beast of an instrumental combining those riffs and some lush cello playing. Of course, there isn’t any singing just riff after riff after mother fucking riff from the originator of all that is heavy and dark. Get it Here
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Xala32PZ5vU
Wax On Water – ‘The Drip -Part 1’ EP This Camden ensemble kicks off this EP with a dark-stringed intro before their electro attack creepy crawls into your ear. ‘Don’t Bore Us’ builds slowly with a dark brooding tempo before breaking out with a menacing riff before falling back into the electro grunge fused twist.
‘The Sting In The Raw’ is a raw as razor blades riff that meanders through the song slashing away with menace. ‘Seventh Son’ is more haunting but again breaks out with a big raw riff that’s dark and brooding. ‘For The Love Of Money’ is a twitching electronic beast as it moves slowly but purposefully to the chorus with all the dark frills of an electro pulsating gothic slap but the vocal add some softer texture to the track and its better for it.
Hearts and Rockets – ‘TV Is Boring (EP)’ (Psychichysteria) Following from their recent single and video ‘Square Eyes’ and single ‘On/Off’, Naarm (Melbourne)-based bratwave duo Hearts and Rockets’ 5-track EP, ‘TV is Boring’, is out on cassette and digitally today and is available via their Bandcamp page, psychichysteria.com, and on all digital and streaming services.
The EP features 4 new originals, including recent singles ‘On/Off‘ with its hypnotic guitar lick, ‘Square Eyes‘ however is like a pulsating bass line and synth hook twitching like a metronome, plus the band’s longest track to date the title track ‘TV Is Boring‘ – which clocks in at almost 13 minutes. PLUS there’s a bonus cover of Black Flag’s classic anthem ‘TV Party’ and Hearts and Rockets’ post-punk anthem ‘Buy It’. Melbourne is having some cool tunes poured out of its backstreets with this really good post punk scuzzed up down n dirty rock n roll noise and we like it baby! Check it out Here
Finnegans Hell – ‘Happy Christmas’ (Sound Pollution) The second best Christmas song ever written? In any case “Happy Christmas” by Finnegan’s Hell qualifies as the second-best Christmas song coming from a Celtic punk band. – “Fairytale of New York” is still number one, but “Happy Christmas” contains enough social realism to make you reach for the bottle once the song is over, says lead singer Pabs Finnegan. His haunting whiskey voice takes the listener through three shades of black in a song that depicts anything but a happy Christmas. It might not be as good as The Pogues (Obviously) nor is it Slade or Wizzard but it shure as shit beats most of the insipid crimbo tunes we hear around this time.
Carrjam – 21 – ‘Can You Feel It’ (sound Pollution) A project started by Dregen to tip the hat to Kiss drummer Eric Carr who has passed 30 years ago! featuring Dregen (The Hellacopters, Backyard Babies), Gustav Kronfelt (video producer), Jolle Atlagic (Electric Boys, The Quill), Jesper Lindgren (Velvet Insane), Ryan Roxie (Alice Cooper/Slash’s Snakepit) Åge Sten Nielsen (WigWam), Philip Shouse (Accept, Ace Frehley, Gene Simmons), Jesper Binzer (D-A-D) and Martin Ekelund (Bonafide). It must be cock rock o clock judging by the style of this slow grooving rock song. Together with some of the most well-known and KISS-inspired musicians, Dregen has recorded 2 songs written by Carr plus 2 KISS related bonus songs.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dN3X4mXfPFc
James Domestic – ‘Push On Through’ (KIBOU RECORDS) second single from James is an electronic departure from his day job with the Domestics. Lifted from James’ debut solo album ‘Carrion Repeating’, due out in April it’s a sparse ride that ends with a freak out of guitar noise broken down by a synth and the techo rhythm and drum beat. widescreen post punk for sure check out the video
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qd95SJQspDQ
Hanterhir – ‘Waiting For Bertie’ (Easy Action) Cornish alt.rockers HANTERHIR return with a brand new single and video ‘Waiting For Bertie’ An adventurous mix of post punk with psychedelic undertones as well as some flutey tones for good measure it seems like the time is right for the band to get back to releasing their album that is penned for early 2022 release Connect here
Scumbag Millionaire / Upploppet – Split (Lux Noise) This is how a split should be done. One band you know, in this case Scumbag Millionaire, and the other- a new one on me, Upploppet. and boy what an introduction. Full tilt, no bullshit, heads-down rock and fucking roll. What a pair of bangers we have here.
Scumbags do write shit tunes it would seem and their contribution is (Don’t Say) I Didn’t Say So’ thunderous drums howling guitars and distorted vocals springing to the finish line before they inhale is how a punk rock and fuckin roll single should be and these mofos absolutely nail it. Not wanting to be outdone Upploppet kick the shit out of their instruments for a thunderous romp through the imaginatively titled ‘Born To Lose’ but forgetting the title, of course, they’re from Sweden and of course we highly recommend you pick up a copy of this before they’re all gone with the wind. Pick up here
Jerry Lehane – ‘Drinking Life’ (Rum Bar Records) A heartfelt wholesome Rock and Roll tune wrapped in memory soaked lyrics with some six-string strumming pierced with some sweet barbed solo licks sees Jerry knock out a hard-edged road worn slice of Rock and Roll with some help from Bosstone Dicky Barrett. Sure there are touches of Neil Young and Crazy Horse happening especially when the solo meanders through the chords. But its Epic in every sense of the word from the arrangement to the storytelling lyrics all adds up to a really impressive tune. Bosstones and Dogmatics couldn’t make a bad record if they tried and this is 100% proof. Check it out here
Electric Frankenstein / The Stripp – Split (Spaghetty Town Records) Whoever said rock is dead is definitely not listening to Spaghetty Town Records. They are back with a ripper of a split EP. First up is New Jersey kings of hard rockin punk Electric Frankenstein. If you aren’t familiar, where have you been?! Founded by brothers Sal and Dan Canzonieri, they’ve been knocking out their punk attitude rock and roll since the 90s, they’ve lost none of their venom and passion as ‘American Lies’ is like a cannonball being fired. Then they hit you in the guts with the beast of a tune ‘Everybody’s Dead Again’ which is an absolute banger of a tune. Worth getting hold of this 7″ for this song alone.
Second up, Melbourne Australia’s The Stripp. Who’ve created a buzz in the underground music scene down under. Fronted by Bek Taylor the band’s raw mix of high-speed sleazy hard rock with catchy riffs has had heads turning in the action rock community for their high-energy rock n roll. ‘Dice Man’ has the hallmarks of Girlschool meets something altogether more down n dirty. With their second offering being available in the video below.
Spaghetty Town has made a limited run of this 7″ on green, pink or black vinyl. Of course it’s available on all streaming and download outlets and also available from the bands direct.
Chubby & The Gang – ‘I Hate The Radio’ (Partisan Records)“I Hate the Radio” taken from the forthcoming album ‘The Mutt’s Nuts.’ sees a side step from the rip-snorting hard rockin new wave of hard core that you might have been expecting instead a soft song for hard men in the shape of I Hate The Radio. Absolute corker it is too. Check it out here in video form and then when you’re done go order the bloody album – Listen/pre-order: Here
Smashed Gladys – ‘Never Take No’ (Golden Robot Records) A little rough round the edges this is a demo that was going to make up the bands third album that never saw the light of day back in the day. With a familiar raunchy barroom rocker ‘Never Take No’ is classic Smashed Gladys. this is the third track from the album thats yet to be released. Sadly Cato sadly passed away in 2020 and Golden Robot Records are proud to bring you new material in her honour. These songs as demos for their 3rd album, which has now been remixed.
E.T. Explore Me – ‘President/Drug Me’ (Voodoo Rhythm Records) How about a bit of scuzzy disco then kids? Yeah we go tit right here from these Dutch loons. They’ve got a bit of dodgy lo-fi disco happening in their lives and these powerful grooves will have you out on the dancefloor in those silk shirts bustin moves. When they say columbia meets Trash Disco they aint messin wiv ya. This is exactly whats on offer. ‘Drug Me’ is more of the same with a funky late 70s early 80s keith Richards guitar work happenin’ – what a pair of ace tunes but don’t get me started on the video it will blow your tiny mind. Get on it here
The Chevelles – ‘Steve McQueen (I Wish I Was)’ (Wicked Cool Records) What a banger this is. From Western Australia, this is all flash guitar breaks Keith Moon drum beats and a top melody over some rip-snorting guitar riffing. the Chevelles are power poppin garage rockers with a heap of stone-cold attitude. A real sparkling single this is to be fair.
“Fuck just getting older, let’s get louder” said frontman Duane Smith and a big fat Amen to that we say. Clearly not giving a fourX we like that from our rock n rollas.
Jizzy Pearl’s LOVE/HATE – ‘Wanna Be Somebody’ (Golden Robot Records) I remember watching Jizzy in a small club near my home town and so loud were his vocals I thought they’d blown my eardrums he’d lost none of the venom in his tone and it would seem he still has one hell of a set of pipes on him as the heavy groove-laden sounds of ‘Wanna Be Somebody’ hits you like a baseball bat. Check it out by visiting Jizzy Here / Listen/buy ‘Wanna Be Somebody’ HERE
Listen to ‘Soul Mama’ HERE
Steve Conte – ‘Dog Days Of Summer’ (Wicked Cool Records) Lifted from his forthcoming new long-player Conte delves deep into the sounds of classic Rod Stewart when Rod the Mod was making better records than anyone ( well almost anyone) A real ‘Every picture’ vibe going on here. The sound of summer tweeting in the intro and outro makes way for the carefree sounds of two brothers and an awesome drummer (Charley Drayton) who played with Keith Richards in his expensive winos. A top summery tune – that’s for sure and if it’s the vibe that the album is hitting then this is the sweet spot of summer right here. It’s a Must have! Stream this bad boy here and pre order the album (‘Bronx Cheer’) from Wicked Cool Records. Website:www.stevecontenyc.com
Fake Names – EP (Epitaph Records) Fake Names, the band featuring DC punk legends Brian Baker, Michael Hampton, and Johnny Temple, fronted by Dennis Lyxzen from Refused, have surprise-released a brand new 3-track EP. The EP features guest drummer Brendan Canty (Rites of Spring, Fugazi)! and a punchy catchy ep it is too. Its bright opener has a good hook on the chorus ‘It Will Take A Lifetime’ is a brightly produced slice of post-punk with emphasis on the melody. ‘Running’ has a lot more punch as it steps into the Bob Mould, Bad Religion territory but has some great bv’s and a catchy breakdown. My pick of the three tracks is the laid back ‘Cuts You Down’ with a chilled verse leading to another catchy chorus. A very decent ep and hopefully the start and not a one off.
The Nuclears fall into a strange realm for me as they can write songs that grab me in a big way while at other times I am left wondering how the production zapped everything out of a song. Their mini-album from 2019 ‘Barrage Rock’ was much the same way with me playing the crap out of the song ‘Lightspeed Getaway’ and unable to say much about the rest of the album. As an album, ‘Seasides’ is ultimately proving to be a very similar experience for me.
Lead song ‘Siamese Connection’ provides a bit of a microcosm of the record for me as I don’t find myself drawn in by the rock n roll guitar riffs or lyrics for the most part. The guitar solo saves it for me though, and I enjoy the remaining bit of the song even if the chorus doesn’t move me. I enjoy the piano bouncing through the song as well. ‘Steer You Wrong’ is one of the songs that will be a long-term golden nugget here for me with Briana Layon providing lead vocals to this one. Musically, I am reminded of Shanda & the Howlers with their rocking take on soul and R & B. The band then launches into ‘Make the First Move’ which just doesn’t connect with me at all. The song just kind of fades by for me, and each time I play the album I find my mind drifting. The production here feels a bit dull as I think this song would hit me much different in a live setting. On the record, this one is missing its fangs.
Up next, the band find themselves playing ‘Small Talk’ and again I don’t find myself connecting with what seems like a good song. This is another example where the production has neutered the song as this could fare much better for me. I will likely try to work this one into some playlists, but it could have been so much better. ‘Mystery Slinger’ wraps up the first half of the album and carries a lot more bite in the production. If the whole album had this sense of urgency and excitement, this review would be much different. I do admit I am a bigger fan of Layon’s vocals and wish she sang lead on all the songs. That is not specific to this album as I have always been more drawn by her vocals than the vocals of both Mike Dudolevitch and Brian Dudolevitch.
The second half of the album continues the preferred production with ‘Bow to the Queen,’ even if it is not my favorite song here. The guitar work by Mike and Brian is extremely well done all the way through. I really enjoy the riff that moves across the top of the verse. ‘I Just Wanna Have Nothin to Do’ recalls a catchy 60’s rock song and is another of my favorites from the album. The band sound like they are having a blast here. The repeat on the chorus to end the song almost runs the risk of going on too long. The band keep some momentum going with ‘Doin the Same Thing Too’ carrying a sense of urgency and maintaining the listener’s attention. This one falls in the middle half of the album for me, and it leaves me wondering with each listen how good this could have been as an EP.
Wrapping up the album, I find myself constantly drifting off again as ‘Slash Run’ just doesn’t hit like it could. This is a prime example where the band needed a rawer, cutting production. It just feels a bit safe to my ears. The band transition in the song to an amended version of KISS classic ‘Strutter,’ which just feels pointless to me. I have heard the original a million times, and, no matter how well done it is, I just don’t get it being on the album. The production level here though would have lifted some of the other songs. Wrapping up the album is rocker ‘Flat & Nasty’ which again falls short largely due to the production. There is a really good song here which just reinforces how frustrating this album is for me.
Musically, the connection to Rum Bar Records lets listeners know that there will be some classic sounding rock n roll on offer. This album falls short for my tastes in that parts of it feel too safe, like the switchblades have been dulled down to round edges for the most part. I have no doubt that I would feel much differently if I walked into a bar and heard these live. There are some great moments here which I will sadly end up cherry picking from the record for the most part as opposed to enjoying the whole record.
Having just completed Doug Brod’s excellent ‘They Just Seem A Little Weird’ book, this third album for Rum Bar Records from Boston based rockers Watts couldn’t have dropped in my review stack at any more appropriate moment.
Why?
Well just like Brod’s book took me back to the magical days of discovering the likes of Cheap Trick, Starz, Aerosmith and KISS for the first time and making me go all gooey eyed in the process, this all new ten tracker celebrates that same glorious era of musical creativity whilst giving it an adrenalin booster shot just right for the 2020s.
‘Loud & Fast’ kicks things off in fine style conjuring up a kind of Blackhearts meets Motorhead vibe with vocalist/guitarist Dan Kopko’s instantly recognisable gravelly roar front and centre hammering home the song’s huge hook. ‘Queens’ is where the band’s underlying KISS influence really does get turned up to eleven, and it’s better than anything the New York glam veterans have written in the last four decades, plus it’s delivered with a Judas Priest lyrical nod that has me grinning from ear to ear every time I hear it. This is how I want MY rock ‘n’ roll that’s for sure.
The other great thing about Watts is that three of the four members can sing lead, so when bassist Tim McCoy takes the microphone for ‘Breaking Glass’ this leaves Kopko to deliver some soaring Lizzy-esque duel harmony guitar with his counterpart John Blout, plus when drummer John Lynch delivers ‘The Night The Lights Went Down’ his cleaner vocal delivery lends this Black Crowesy roots rocker a more power-poppy sheen and band in the process offers up a potential breakthrough radio hit.
Elsewhere ‘Shady’ would not sound out of place on a post-Bowie intervention Mott The Hoople album, whilst ‘Heavy Metal Kids’ has an instant “in his prime” (as in prior to 1985) Bryan Adams charm to it, that if this world has any justice to it will see it being sung in karaoke bars worldwide for decades to come, and I really do not mean that as a put down. Then there’s the incredible ‘Shocking Pink’, a song Blout/Kopko (who write seven of the ten tunes here) surely must have written whilst listening to Jellyfish, albeit here the glorious vocal hooks are all played out by a band who really are hooked on a Heartbreakers (Tom Petty version) trip rather than Supertramp and Wings.
And talking of breaking hearts, the sleazy Thunders/Dolls vibe of ‘Seventeen’ is a hellraising, fag in the corner of the mouth kind of rocker driven along by some brass stabs that will have you straight up and stomping your creepers, and if you’re looking for the perfect morning after soundtrack to counter that then ‘When the Party Ends’ is just what the doctor ordered for your hangover from hell (even if to my ears at least it’s got a bit of Stereophonics thing going on). Which just leaves the only track on here that has been previously available, the prophetic and Cars-like ‘All Done With Rock & Roll’, which kind of takes us full circle, ensuring as the final chords chime out you just have to press play again.
The world needs ‘Shady Rock & Rollers’ like Watts right now, and believe me when I say you need this record in your life. It’s out now via Rum Bar Records and really is essential listening!!!!!
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