Well time for another column and this week I was able to sneak out and use my car’s CD player to listen to some of the latest offerings and a set of re-issues. Had to come to terms with two rather derivative albums that are really rather good at what they do.
Burn Halo: s/t
This is a great release for a debut album from a bunch of Orange County lads. Formed out of the ashes of 18 Visions the band does power pop in a way that just puts a smile on your face. Reminds me quite a bit of Smashmouth with a bit of Cheap Trick mixed in for good measure. Catchy and always fun tracks that don’t ever offend but are rewarding just the same. The band admit to an “80's vibe” for this stuff and I have to say they have a point. Not in a bad way, however.
With the right backing and a good push from radio this band could be huge before we know it. They have the right elements of approachability and tuneship. This CD has people like Avenged Sevenfold guitarist Synster Gates and was recorded with a bunch including the drummer from Nickleback, and a former Jane’s Addiction guitarist. The fact that a label shelved this in early 2008 is quite shocking to be honest. Power pop in the 00s does not get much better than this.
Supagroup: Fire for Hire
They hail from New Orleans and they sound like a mix of AC/DC and Hanoi Rocks filtered through the whole New Orleans bayou vibe. This is very much the sleazier end of heavy rock but with tongue firmly in cheek. The band even have a song called “Jailbait” which they released as a single. Much of this music is pretty derivative of Bon Scott-era AC/DC but that does not hinder its sheer enjoyability.
The tracks on here make for a great soundtrack for a drive and seem like they were written andd recorded to come out of your car stereo whether it’s a ’72 Cuda or a 2009 Mustang. You know another thing, that they kick live and will be where you are sooner or later.
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