What do you get when you mix up members of Teen Idols, Rehasher, Army of Ponch and throw Roger Less Than Jake in the producers chair? Yep, an almost unbeatable combo, in this case Bullets To Broadway who literally burst onto the scene with ‘Drink Positive’, a ripper of a record that deserves to be heard from CD players acros the land. If, like me, you miss Teen Idols, then this is the closest thing you will get to new material from the band. Featuring ex-TI members Kevin, Matt and Heather, Bullets To Broadway recreate some of the sweet melodies The Idols became famed for – and that alone is enough for me to urge you to get this record.
‘Happily Ever After’ marries Teen Idols and Rehaser brilliantly well, and as Heather did in her former band, she adds a warmth and extra dimension to proceedings with her backing vocals. ‘Stickin In The Middle’ and ‘Greyhound’ are just chirpy slices of pop-punk goodness, showing some of the younger pups how to do it properly. Throughout this 8-tracker BTB manage to maintain a high-octane pace, scattergun drums and some huge hooks that cannot fail but to induce sudden spurts of singing. The basslines remind me of NOFX, the guitars of a chunkier Lawrence Arms, but it’s the dual vocals that make me fall in love with this band.
‘The Whole World Lost Its Head’ arguably sums this mini-album up rather nicely – it is the soundtrack to your summer, only it’s February. While at times the musical backdrop may be harsh, there are so many melodies and harmonies you cannot fail to be impressed. This is top stuff and, for me, the best of Household Name’s recent signings. You’d be a fool to miss out…
www.bulletstobroadway.com
Household Name Records
Paul