Going through the backlog of CDs, several Kool Kat artists were released recently. If you like your power pop in a vintage 80’s mode, you couldn’t do better than John Wicks new album “Rotate.” Wicks picks up with the classic Records sound and starts right away with the catchy “Oh Yeah!” a sure-fire classic single. Another standout is “That Girl is Emily” – a great rock and roll song with a bit of Cheap Trick styled guitar theatrics. “Rotate” is another mid-tempo guitar jangle-fest with a highly enjoyable melodic chorus that reminds me of a classic REM song. Wicks vocals have barely aged and sounds as good as he did twenty years ago. “Rising Stars” and “Desert Sky” both have some great moments, but wander on a bit too long. Another great song is “The Lost Years” an autobiographical account of The Records troubled past. “Come on Round” is another catchy riff filled piece of jangly goodness with a touch of alt. country. Also a great cover of the Beatles’ “We Can Work it Out” rounds out this excellent release. For Records fans, this is a must-have CD and for other pop fans it is highly enjoyable listening. My fellow blogger, Kid Charlemagne has a detailed history of The Records and this release here.
John Wicks and The Records Website | Kool Kat | My Space – the Records | John Wicks solo | Not Lame | CD Baby
Video: “Starry Eyes” – The Records big hit from 1980.
Great vid..The rest of the sites good to .I’ll be back.