Chicago’s dynamic duo, The Handcuffs are back with a new record, building on the debut album “Model For A Revolution” the band struts it’s pop muscle here. The Handcuffs are primarily a duo of vocalist Chloe Orwell and drummer Brad Elvis (of the infamous Elvis Brothers). If you ever wondered what would Gwen Stefani sound like if she did power pop, this is your closest answer in the title track “Electroluv” which may be an ode to a sexy vacuum cleaner (not sure here). Brad Elvis knows his way around a pop tune and the group delivers powerful, melody-driven songs that are both accessible and commercial. Some of the lyrically simple ideas here work well (“Half A Mind”) and others not so much (“Gotta Problem With Me?”). But there are enough highlights here to shake your mojo to, including the very Debbie Harry sounding “I Just Wanna Be Free, Man” with Chloe’s sultry purr of the chorus. And the ballads are another pleasant surprise, as “Turn it Up” and “Wonderful Life” are very sweet and memorable. Another standout for me is the guitar riff heavy “Resurrection” and the piano pop hooks of “Fake Friends” which for me is the best written of the bunch. Fans of Joan Jett, INXS and Blondie will eat this one up.
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