CATCH 22
(New Jersey)

"Alone in a Crowd" (Victory Records; 2000)

Reviewed by R. Scott Bolton

One of the requirements for a CD to be reviewed here at Rough Edge is "loud guitars." That being said, it took me a long time to decide whether Catch 22 fit the Rough Edge audience or not. After listening to the CD a few times, however, and noting that there are indeed moments of "loud guitar," it became clear that Catch 22 deserved to be mentioned.

Catch 22 are a punk-sounding band who often use horns in the place of guitars. It's a sound somewhat like that of the Mighty Mighty Bosstones, but with more of a punk flavor than that band. Oh, the guitars are there and - when they're brought to the forefront - they're loud enough. But it's the horns that really make up the music of Catch 22 and it's the way the horns are used that make this CD so unique. They rock as hard as any guitar. (Well, most, anyway.)

It doesn't hurt that the band writes terrific songs. From the opening track, "Point the Blame," to the final title track, "Alone in a Crowd" rips along at breakneck speed. It may be hard to imagine without hearing this record, but I envision people moshing at a Catch 22 show. They might mosh at a Mighty Mighty Bosstones show, too, but I be the Catch 22 crowd would be even wilder.

If you like to try something new and different, check out Catch 22. 

Catch 22 is: Mike Soprano - trombone; Ryan Eldred - sax; Pat Kays - bass; Pat Calpin - guitar; Jeff Davidson - vocals; Kevin Gunther - trumpet; Chris Greer - drums.

For more information, visit http://www.victoryrecords.com

Rating Guide:

A classic. This record will kick your ass.

Killer. Not a classic but it will rock your world.

So-so. You've heard better.

Pretty bad. Might make a nice coaster.

Self explanatory. Just the sight of the cover makes you wanna hurl.

 

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Revised: 07 Aug 2022 14:41:21 -0400 .