The Front Bottoms – Slow Dance To Soft Rock

By paul

I was asked to review this record by the guys at Alter The Press who have been championing them for a bit. They’re based in New Jersey and a three-piece, although their sound is more akin to a band with double the members. There’s all kinds of stuff going on with this six-tracker; it’s chaotic and interesting and intriguing, although not always my thing. It’s the type of record where over the years I’ve listened and not always ‘got’ it, but have always admired a band for at least trying to forge their own thing.

And in any case, there’s some fucking COWBELL on this record. That alone is worth a full star.

Who would I say they sound like? Well they don’t really sound like a carbon copy of anyone. There’s a lot of interesting arrangements and dynamic musicianship here. I read that AbsolutePunk described the band as “a hipster’s wet dream”, but I don’t really agree – either that or I’m out of touch with what’s currently hip. Anyway, it’s honest and passionate and raw with distinctive vocals that stand out from the pack. In a way only a lazy reviewer can, I’d suggest you listen to the band and make up your own mind. They’re one of those interesting and exciting acts that haven’t quite disappeared up their own arse, yet keep you own your toes just incase they do. Not really my kinda thing, but they have my admiration and praise nonetheless.

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