April 22, 2011

Toronto Quartet Go Back To Rock 'N Roll Basics

Teenage Kicks - Rational Anthems EP   4/5


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   Much of the past decade rock music has put on several different hats, from the dance-rock of bands like The Killers to the alternative arena rock of Kings of Leon, all with a sleek, manicured sound that moved away from classic rock and the simplicity of a song built on gritty vocals, pounding drums and explosive guitar riffs.

    For Toronto's Teenage Kicks those classic rock bands, like The Who or Creedence Clearwater Revival and the foundamental elements of rock music, are exactly what this quartet is all about. Their debut EP Rational Anthems, is a return to simple and in the case of Teenage Kicks, enjoyable rock 'n roll of days gone by.  Full of nostalgic lyrics, crashing cymbals, gritty guitars and vocalist Peter Van Helvoort's raspy vocals, Rational Anthems is a solid 5 track set. Standout 'Brooklyn Bridge' is a solid, straight forward rock tune, while the hook heavy 'Hearts of Darkness' stitches together crunchy guitars, vocal melodies and piano flourishes that make for a great summer rock tune. 
   Teenage Kicks offer no over the top flashy dance-rock or hair metal tunes on their debut EP, just gritty rock that's perfect whether at a bar or summer cottage. The band succeeds in spades at capturing what good, old rock 'n roll and for that they shouldn't be missed. 
   

1 comment:

Gogmagog said...

Thanks for the heads-up on this one. Always on the lookout for new music that is no-frills, straight-up ROCK. Looking forward to checking this out - appreciate the post and the lead - thanks!