Seems like behind-the-scenester Dave Hause--who'd managed and booked numerous punk bands from his hometown of Philadelphia, as well as being a member of The Curse--couldn't resist the temptation of making his own music. It's a good thing he did, because The Loved Ones' self-titled debut EP is a really awesome little record. Though House's legacy is clearly established in the house of punk, the music on The Loved Ones isn't really punk. It's rock, but it's not hard, either. Some might dare call it e*o, but we won't, because it's really better than that.
While only five short songs long, The Loved Ones quickly charms you with its simplicity and heartfealt nature. Hause's voice is raspy but appealing; his band is tight, and the melodies are extremely charming. The songs are all poppy and anthemic--it's easy to see them as a band who can get their audience to sing along with every song. (It's also not hard to see these songs being popular on teen dramas like The OC, but that's a whole 'nother discussion.) On songs "100K" and "Candy Cane," they show the keen ability to rock out and on "Massive" and "Drastic," they prove themselves adept at mellower fare.
The Loved Ones is simply fun music. It's great music for parties, for rockin' out and for driving--even though the plastic CD design doesn't play in my car stereo. (Insert frowny emoticon here.) Ah well, c'est la vie; The Loved Ones are the last essential pop-punk band, and here's to a bright future.
--Joseph Kyle
Artist Website: http://www.thelovedonesband.com
Label Website: http://www.jadetree.com
No comments:
Post a Comment