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The Kicks are the latest of the 'The' bands to jump on the
garage power pop train. So, what sets the moppy haired quartet apart
from The Strokes, The Hives, or The Vines? In
all honesty, besides a better vocalist, tighter harmonies and more
complex guitar riffs, not much. Despite the adolescent penned lyrics
they share with their contemporaries, the Arkansas boys do stand out
as unique as they incorporate shades of 80's new wave by way of The
Cars catchy keyboard hooks. The Kicks aren't afraid to wear their
influences on their sleeves as they borrow heavily from Cheap Trick,
The Clash and Nirvana. While The Kicks have an obvious
affinity for LA Punk they soften the blow by replacing angst with
optimism. Hello Hong Kong - the bands' TVT debut - was partially
recorded in Butch Vig's Smart Studio with producer Doug
Colson (Dwarves, L7, Remy Zero). The result
of the collaboration is an upbeat, poppy and playful celebration full
of good-natured and non-threatening narratives. Although seven songs
were taken from the band's debut, The Kicks, they were treated
with the trademark Vig glossy makeover for a radio friendlier sound.
The Kicks may not be political, complex, or socially motivated
but they are dreadfully amusing and extremely fun.
-Tony Englehart
Track Listing:
1. Radar
2. What Do I Have To Do
3. Satellite
4. 12 Steps
5. MIR
6. The Exorcist
7. Pop Star Radio Crown
8. Bomb
9. Pretty One
10. Pill
11. Ninety Nine
12. Jet
Check out a track from The Kicks' newest record:
12 Steps
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