THE FADES
"The Fades" (Dirrty Records; 2006)
Reviewed by R. Scott Bolton
If the Clash played stoner rock, they might have sounded a little like The Fades' self-titled CD.
Fuzzy guitars. Fast-paced tempos. Groove-laden hooks. All of these combine to give this ten track CD a life all its own.
The bad news is that this is the kind of CD that most people are either going to love or hate. It's unique enough that some people are going to screw up their face and say, "Ewww!" the moment the opening chords start. Then, there are others who are going to find the band's garage band punk style irresistible.
For me, the band was at its best when they were driving hard, as they do on "Life Support," "Get Better" and "Blade." Things lose a little energy when the band gets introspective, especially on "Music is Killing Me," whose sentiment I can understand but, guys, I'm tired of hearing it.
Looking for something fresh and different? Then "The Fades" might be right up your alley.
The Fades: Dave Lightfoot - lead vocals, guitar; James Lightfoot - bass, backing vocals; Jonny Barnard - guitar; Alastair "Flash" Thorpe - drums (tracks 4 and 10); Graham Best - drums, backing vocals.
For more information, check out http://www.myspace.com/thefades.
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.
Copyright © 2008 by R. Scott Bolton. All rights
reserved.
Revised: 16 Sep 2024 12:13:34 -0400.
