Surprisingly (and delightfully), the Moaners rock. Not as hard as you'd like them to (my disappointment is that they don't rock harder than they do here, it's almost too tuneful in some spots, if you can say that for a duo on drums, samples, loops and a down-tuned guitar). You want this record to shred your eardrums and it comes oh so very very very close... but you come away unscathed. And sad, almost, that they didn't rip you to pieces. It will be interesting to see how the live version of the Moaners manifests itself, if the amps go to 11 (I have now reached the rock writer union limit of no more than two "Spinal Tap" references per review, don't worry, this is it, I promise) or if they maintain this lower-key groove as presented on the album.
The songs are short and to the point - most numbers near the 3 minute mark - and again, are downright poppy for what they're made of. There's even some Cobain-esque guitar feedback and tones throughout that, surprisingly, works. Standout tracks include "Heart Attack," "Oh Christy," and the instrumental "Chasing the Moon" that closes the album (and which deserves an orchestra in the background, I swear). Dark Snack is crunchy, it's solid, and ultimately, it's as satisfying as the Hostess cupcake that adorns the cd label.
Article comments
1 - MT
Hey Caryn -- check out POT LIQUOR on Diesel Only Records, too.
2 - Steve Morris
Great review. The Moaners are awesome. I have been a music fan for over 40 years and they rock with the best. This is raw blues at its best...perfection (well, would be if they lived in England!) Look forward to seeing them live. For me the sound is just right, dirty, raunchy, uplifting blues. 15/10