Follow Modern Rock Terrace
all the way up to the corner of Sleaze Metal Boulevard and glancing over to
the kerb you are likely to see 'The Idols' perched precariously between a trashcan
and tattoo parlour.
When I first stumbled upon The Idols about 18 months ago in a smokey back-alley
bar they struck me as potentially 'just another emo punk band'. I could see,
however, a sleazy tattoo-fueled image, some ripper guitar riffs and some killer
songs waiting to bust out. Their debut EP 'Dirty Minds Fishnets & High Heels'
released just last year confirmed this suspicion and can be described by just
3 words... "awesome".... "obnoxious"... "masterpiece".
It sees the band transform into a punk infused sleaze metal band appealing to
fans of Crank County Daredevils, Crystal Pistol, Star Rats, and even Vains of
Jenna.
5 Tracks of heavy, in-your-face, modern sleaze rock is launched with the opening
track 'Cocaine Dance Party'. Think Crystal Pistol with a sprinkling of Limp
Bizkit. Now don't let the Limp Bizkit comparison put you off as these guys are
simply full-throttle sleaze metal blended with just enough modern punk rock
to appeal to the new generation.
My vote for the song of 2007 'Together Forever' rams home the advantage. Its
glorious blend of raucous sleaze and modern metal hit's the spot perfectly...
if you consider 'perfect' and punch in the teeth. How these guys haven't been
picked up by a major label is beyond belief. Yes... this EP is that good!
A Linkin Park-meets-Crank County Daredevils rock ballad 'Shoot Me Down' settles
the mood for a few minutes before the roaring chorus of 'Carnival of Sins' compels
the listener to crank the volume on the stereo all the way up to 11.
Yeah, I've given this disc a good wrap but the fact of the matter is... it thoroughly
deserves it. Don't be mistaken - this is not a CD for everyone. The attitude
and vocals displayed here are aggressive, yet retain a melodic aura consistent
with the 80's. Those seeking 'Danger Danger' style vocals will most likely flee
with their tails between their legs, however those who appreciate snarling,
almost screamo, vocals will find these guys extremely high on their current
play list. Their debut EP has barely left my CD player since I laid my hands
on it and I cannot wait to hear what these guys will deliver next.
8.5/10
by Lindsay Bulach
Visit the Idols Website