So this title sounds like a really dirty comic strip wrapped up in bubble gum. Actually it’s two bands I’ve listened to.
Bazooka Jones “Bazooka Jones”
You gotta keep your eye on Detroit, rock city… Fronted by a 4′ 11′ rock and roll dynamo Viagra and backed by the crunchy, guitar attack of her 6′ 3′ ventriloquist dummy Bullethead, the band delivers in spades, both sonically and visually. Viagra’s velvety vocals resemble a cross between Natalie Merchant and Debbie Harry. Bullethead’s strong guitar work support the basic melody and the opener “Pants Off” sets the right tone. The colorful/menacing visual images of the band don’t quite match up with the guitar pop that gets too light on occasion (“Swinging On The Moon”). I expected something more Southern Culture on The Skids, and get something closer to The Donnas or Vibeke. And that’s fine with me. In fact the hooks and harmonies are in full force on “Goodbye, Mr. Nice Guy” and the bouncy “Love Up.” These are great pop songs and Bullethead does get to go a little Van Halen on “Bazooka Ride” and a wild cover of “These Boots Are Made For Walkin’.” The drums keep a steady beat and help put together a string of great songs like “Girl On Fire” and “Drive In Boy” with a heavy emphasis on the “power” in power pop. Fans of Garage pop and female lead bands mentioned above should pick this one up.
MySpace | CDBaby| Bazooka Jones site
The Sexy Accident “Kinda Like Fireworks”
This is a Kansas City-based band lead by singer/songwriter/guitarist, Jesse Kates. After a great punchy pop debut, the band gets more adult and serious in subject. The sound recalls Jonathan Coulton meets Elvis Costello. “Baby it’s Not Cheating” is a great topical tale, about just thinking about being unfaithful. Jesse sings about someone he met online and convincing himself “it’s not cheating, as long as it’s fleeting” and hoping it really is a girl online. The super catchy “My Girl” is immediately accessible with a smooth guitar hook, and tight delivery. The slower tunes like “Gardener, Gibbet, Misery” are emotionally honest in telling the tale of self doubt. Jesse speeds things up with buzzing guitar on “Flirting With Disaster” and “Hey You” brings to mind Weezer or Fountains of Wayne. Other highlights include the snappy tempo and chord changes of “Morning Drive,” and the spiteful “Dancing With My Friends” complete with wild guitar break about stewing over regrets. A worthy set of emotional pop songs with lyrical bite. FYI – you can get it for FREE on the Sexy Accident site!
MySpace | Sexy Accident Direct | Emusic