The Smears – Freak Show

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Rating: ★★½☆☆

I don’t generally review singles, but ok, here’s a go at it. Freak Show by The Smears. This all female punk / rock and roll trio hearkens back to the RIOTGRRL sounds of the 90’s ala L7, 7 Year Bitch and Bratmobile. The difference being that The Smears are from Nottingham (you know, like the sheriff)

The music is solid three chord punk; rhythmically choppy, a bit staccato, if you will. The vocals are of the speak-as-sing variety and production-wise the feel is very garage / lo-fi. It certainly isn’t bad, but I’d really have to listen to more to make a more informed opinion.

–Jerry Actually

Softball – S/T

(c) 1999 Asianman Records
Rating: ★★★☆☆

Add two parts Go-Go’s one part teen angst, smack ’em together and label ’em Made In Japan and you’ve got the power girl punk from Japan’s latest export Softball. I don’t want to come across as sexist, but I generally don’t listen to a lot of “girl” music. But damnit I like Softball. They have spunk and energy and punky Clash like sensibility. throughout the entire CD I’m kept marvelously entertained. the tunes are very heavily accented so that I can’t make out a majority of the lyrics, yet I find myself wanting to sing along even if only phonetically. If you like your punk a little on the poppy side and you’ve ever found yourself singing along to the Go-Go’s, add a little international flavor to your life and listen to softball. I don’t think you’ll be disappointed.

–Jerry Actually

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