When a TGEFM staffer just doesn't have the time to write up a full review for an EP or LP, they can do a quick one for the Drive-by Reviews feature. Think of it like a Cliff's Notes for reviews– You'll get the gist of it without all of the verbiage.
Have an album or release you want reviewed? Send it to us HERE.
Cleveland Avenue – The Things Better Left Unsaid EP
Self-Released – 30 Jul 2021
Strong effort from pop-punk newcomers who will certainly do great things with a little more experience under their belts.
Why you want it: You like to say “I've been a fan since the beginning” and would love to actually mean it for once.
Why you don't: You hated the melodrama of Degrassi.
Top Tracks: “If I Needed Help I wouldnt call (911),” “Untaken”
Review by Bad Dad
Indigo de Souza – Any Shape You Take
Saddle Creek Records – 27 Aug 2021
Indie-pop masterpiece, brimming with open wound confessionals and perfect arrangements.
Why you want it: Anybody that has ever felt anything resembling vulnerability is going to feel as though some of these songs were written based on their journals.
Why you don't: Not for you if you get more than a little uncomfortable eavesdropping on someone's heartbreak.
Top Tracks: “Hold U,” “Kill Me,” “Bad Dream”
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Single sentence review
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Gordita Beach – Gordita Beach
Way Minter Records – 17 Aug 2021
Hardcore throwback of minimalistic, short, fast and loud bangers and mosh.
Why you want it: NYHC bombast with a healthy dose of DC explosiveness craft a stellar outing.
Why you don't: If you are more concerned with the production than the message, you've already missed the boat with Gordita Beach.
Top Tracks: “Starve,” “Crush”
Review by Bad Dad
Lauran Hibberd – Goober
eOne Music UK – 30 Jul 2021
Self-deprecating slack-pop toeing the line between Wheatus & Kate Nash, while managing a humorous originality.
Why you want it: This record is for those of us always in the mood for adorably self-aware lyrics and radio-friendly musicianship.
Why you don't: Your ego doesnt like those “come hither” glances to be chased by “fuck yourself” bite.
Top Tracks: “Bleugh,” “Old Nudes,” “How am I Still Alive?”
Review by Bad Dad
The Petty Saints – Long Way Home
Dark Horse Coffee Records – 30 Jul 2021
Sleeper contender for album of the year focused on strong musicianship and perfectly crafted lyricism.
Why you want it: Think Gaslight Anthem without Fallon's gravelly vocals.
Why you don't: There's really no reason any rock fan would dislike this LP, it's fun and fulfilling start to finish.
Top Tracks: “Clean Hands & Guilt,” “Broken Bottles,” “That's a Lie”
Review by Bad Dad
Radical Radical – I Feel Like I Want To
Self-Released – 27 Aug 2021
Homegrown‘s Adam Lohrbach provides proof that pop-punk can mature without losing its roots.
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Review by Bad Dad
Rose Crest – Bad Decisions EP
Self-Released – 13 Aug 2021
Accessible pop punk with a clear shot at commercial success.
Why you want it: All the fun of a Drive Thru Records band without the discomfort of knowing some poor young man was possibly walking, scantily clad, on Richard Reines' back
Why you don't: Those of you who wouldn't like to see Day To Remember and New Found Glory share a stage will probably not enjoy the clear influences of both on this EP
Top Tracks: “Sinking Ship,” “The Fall”
Review by Bad Dad
Teenage Bottlerocket – Sick Sesh
Fat Wreck Chords – 27 Aug 2021
Another solid entry of leather jacket punk, same thing TBR have done for better part of last 20 years.
Why you want it: You still play Tales From Wyoming and They Came From the Shadows and are ready for more of the same.
Why you don't: If you've heard any of the previous discography and thought “eh, not for me” you wont be surprised this also isn't for you.
Top Tracks: “Strung Out on Stress,” “Ghost Story”
Review by Bad Dad
VIAL – Loudmouth
Get Better Records – 30 Jul 2021
A sensational post-riot kick in the dick.
Why you want it: All the fun, piss and vinegar of Bratmobile updated for today's audiences.
Why you don't: If you get your macho briefs in a bunch over razor commercials, the phrase “toxic masculinity” or the genitalia on a child's toy, you probably can't handle this slice of joy.
Top Tracks: “Planet Drool,” “Ego death”
Review by Bad Dad
Young Culture – Godspeed EP
Equal Vision Records, Rude Records – 30 Jul 2021
A small step forward by the constantly maturing Albany rockers.
Why you want it: You enjoyed the self-titled record and have heard about Rome not being built in a day.
Why you don't: You enjoyed the self-titled record and expect 10 months to be enough time for the band to fully develop into what was hinted at last October.
Top Tracks: “Hum” “Simplemindedteens”
Review by Bad Dad