Austin, Texas power-punk poppers the Gentlemen Rogues have been regaling audiences since 2010 with their aggressive guitar-driven tunes that owe much to Brit bands like The Who, Elvis Costello & the Attractions and The Jam. It’s catchy, brazen and in-your-face material.
Danny Dunlap (vocals, guitar), Cordon Simons (guitar, vocals), Brandon Tucker (bass), and Josh Power (drums) have now released their EP ‘A History So Repeating’.
We had a listen:
‘Your Armageddon’ has sherbet-lemon guitars, love-bomb drums, and sneering orange-peel vocals that, although not sweet nor gentle, will never grate into your noggin’ or unduly depress you.
The chorus is singalong, without being casual. In other words, this song retains punk traits like insular pain and unqualified assertion… But without being too mean about it.
We cannot sympathize, but sometimes we might have “Empathy for The Devil”. And this next track has a cracking rhythm and vivid accompaniments. But, best of all, is that gift of a melody. It makes you smile and nod your head. You can get on board this so quickly. It’s essential stuff.
‘Cap in Hand’ is Jammy. With tin metal thrums and a practical strum, it shines like a tear on the cheek.
And it haunts your heart like a sudden loss. The melody here is bright and innocent. This is a busking track you can get your teeth into.
Motivated, well organized, provocative and totally unafraid to be real … Fine fayre from these Rogues that are also Gentlemen.
Words: @neilmach 2015 ©
Main photo by Vanessa Escobedo
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