There are punk bands that are all thunder and fury. We respect the passion and listen avidly, but at times the art of the song is lost. Then there are bands that declare themselves punk, but seem to like the idea of being a punk band while really being a pop rock band. And then there is a rare punk-oriented band that has the incisive writing and aggressive performing, but also understands the need for a hook, a laugh and a melody. Such a band are Oakland, California's Neutrals.
We don't mind stealing that language for our post about their "Wish You Were Here", the first single from their upcoming album New Town Dream, because we wrote it. And it remains at least as true today as it was two years ago. In just this first single we get shaggy C86 guitar pop and Josef K style clanging guitars. We are tingling here (nothing a few beers won't cure, of course).
Neutrals is a trio that craft songs with sonic punch, melody, and incisive lyrics. They believe what they believe and don't hold back in telling you. It is a stunning band that deserves a wide audience, and perhaps this album will help them attain that.
New Town Dream will be released May 31 on Slumberland Records and Static Shock Records.
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