TURBONEGRO
"Party
Animals" (Abacus; 2005)
Reviewed by R. Scott Bolton
"Party Animals" is a super-charged rock'n'roll record with its tongue placed firmly in cheek. With songs like "Blow Me (Like the Wind)," you can tell the band isn't taking themselves too seriously.
Still, the music here is incredible, with crunchy guitar riffs, razor sharp lead solos and songwriting that is surprisingly accessible. Lead vocalist Hank Van Helvete sometimes sounds a bit like Dexter Holland of The Offspring and that works, too. In fact, this band reminds me of a hard rock version of The Offspring and there's nothing wrong with that. I love the Offspring, too.
"Party Animals" isn't afraid to surprise the listener, either. Take track 4, "City of Satan," that starts out like a mid-tempo rocker and ends with an orchestral sound that almost sounds like a James Bond title tune.
There's nothing complicated or sophisticated here, but "Party Animals" rocks hard and consistently. Most of this can be attributed to the engaging guitar work, especially that of lead guitarist Euroboy, but the entire band contributes and the production is crystal clear and perfectly balanced. Listen to this one with headphones.
If you're looking for some politically incorrect humor in the form of kick ass rock'n'roll, you'll find it in "Party Animals."
Turbonegro: Hank Von Helvete - vocals; Happy-Tom - bass; Euroboy - lead guitar; Rune Rebellion - rhythm guitar; Pål Pot Pamparius - rhythm guitar; Chris Summers - drums.
For more information, check out www.scandinavianleather.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:
12 Aug 2024 14:33:57 -0400.
