THE PINK SPIDERS
"Teenage
Graffiti" (Geffen; 2006)
Reviewed by R. Scott Bolton
Looking at the cover art for "Teenage Graffiti," one might get the impression that The Pink Spiders are just another pop punk band. Discovering that the CD is released through Geffen Records might further deepen that impression. But just one listen through "Teenage Graffiti" and you'll realize that, while still boasting a sharp punk edge, this CD is more akin to Cheap Trick than Blink 182.
"Teenage Graffiti" is all chunky chords, hook-laden riffs, irresistible verses and choruses, and rhythms that (dare I say?!) are almost danceable. It's a solid rock (or is that rawk?) album through and through, with an occasional sidestep into the world of bands like The Clash ("Hollywood Fix"), The Cars ("Little Razorblade"), Fu Manchu ("Soft Smoke") and Billy Joel (Billy Joel?! Check out "Adalae").
Of all the above similarities, the Billy Joel sound may be the most surprising, but The Cars emulation probably is not. "Teenage Graffiti" was produced by none other than Ric Ocasek, who work behind the mixer board has given this CD a meaty yet jaunty sound and, in doing so, has given the Pink Spiders an step up on the ladder to rock'n'roll success.
"Teenage Graffiti" is one very entertaining CD.
The Pink Spiders: Matt Friction - vocals/guitar; Jon Decious - bass; Bob Ferrari - world's greatest drummer (that's what it says on the CD liner, so it must be true).
For more information, check out www.thepinkspiders.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.
Copyright © 2007 by R. Scott Bolton. All
rights reserved.
Revised: 09 Dec 2024 16:07:12 -0500
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