The Cocktail Slippers “Joyride”
This Norwegian all-female band lands somewhere between Heart and Vibeke Saugestad, with a dash of Kiss-style theatricality. ‘Joyride’ might be Wicked Cool Records’ strongest release from the band yet, mixing hard-rock muscle with enough pop sparkle to keep things from getting too heavy. “Back Where You Belong” comes roaring out of the gate with a traveling guitar riff, heavy bass and a tightly packed rhythm section.
The title track follows with a seductive “na na na na na” sing-along chorus that practically demands audience participation. But “123” is where the band separates itself from the template. Its story of dumping a loser boyfriend and refusing to keep “wasting all my time” gives the song some personality beyond the usual rock posturing. “This Town” takes a more melodic pop approach, and its chorus is arguably the strongest moment on the album. The band knows how to write a chorus, even if some of the lyrics occasionally settle for rock ’n’ roll clichés. Thankfully, the vocals, harmonies and sheer enthusiasm keep the formula from feeling stale. The band delivers big guitars, strong harmonies, and enough attitude to make the ride worthwhile. Definitely music that deserves to be heard.
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The Feeders “Dark Days”
I’ve missed Sam Vicari, so seeing him back in action is a welcome surprise. Sam has been a steady power pop presence for years, building his sound around what The Big Takeover once called “effortless melodicism” and “punky, crunching guitars.” For The Feeders, he’s teamed up with Chicago guitarist Alex Rackow (Winona Driver), bassist Eli Caterer (Smoking Popes), and drummer John Perrin (NRBQ), and the chemistry is immediate.
“Back to Indiana” opens with crunchy guitars and romantic longing, hooking you before the first chorus is over. “Congratulations, By The Way” keeps the momentum going with another sharp, compact gem. “Mrs. Duluth News Anchor” has an early Radiohead edge, while “Out to Rot” brings in some of that jangly Teenage Fanclub magic. The Feeders specialize in raw, fuzzy power pop, where crunchy guitars and tight arrangements give the melodies plenty of bite. The songs are lean, melodic, and rarely crack the three-minute mark, so there’s little room for filler. There’s not much to complain about here. The Feeders know exactly what they’re doing, and they do it damn well. Sam Vicari is back, and he hasn’t lost his touch. Highly Recommended.
