Jack's Creation,
46 Itchy46 Itchy are a little over two years old now in a scene flooded with punk by numbers ska are they any different? Yes and no. They certainly have an edge to their music which is brimming with energy and passion, and is to the six peice's credit. As with any band, they have aspirations for the top and judging from this seven track album/EP , they may go some way to getting there. Currently on Middlesborough’s Toddler Records don't be surprised to hear a little more from them in the future.
The album opens with the trumpet laiden 'Karate Girl'. Your standard ska orientated affair but never-the-less one that keeps you listening from start to finish. 'Get Up Get Out' features some clever pace changes and vocal harmonies which complement the song well and is a definate highlight of the album. 'Bad Day Day doesn't really offer what we haven't heard so far in this short ska journey, but never the less holds its own and far more accomplished bands have done a darn sight worse. Certainly what 46 Itchy seem to lack in originality they more than make up for in effort and energy.
'Part Time' is another personal favorite showing clever pace changes with following track 'Same Old, Same Old' showcasing a clever intro before bursting into... you guessed it, exactly what we had previously heard. In fairness to them though, the lyric 'This song sounds good but it's the same' does hint at some form of irony. 'Whiney Bitch' is another song featuring some ingenuity with the cunningly titled 'End Song' wrapping up proceedings with a crooning number laid over drunken ramblings from the guys (and gal!).
All in all it is an impressive debut from the Sunderland six peice. The only problem with the album is it seems to be lacking that final cutting edge, there is something missing making you come back for more. They certainly have talent, and too find that certain something would definatly make more people sit up and take notice. New English merch site http://www.punkermentality.com/ currently has the CD in stock as well, so if you're looking for an upbeat album to listen to on a chilled Sunday night, look no further!
Jay
