First Impressions are whiz-bang reviews of singles, 7″s, EPs, and LPs which are given a review after a single listen. This is a great way for TGEFM to showcase some of the releases which may not get a full review on their own.
Laptop Punk Records, 04 Dec 2022
Pop punk rock and roller Dave Strong has put together quite a collection of songs over the past couple of years. Ranging from Ramones-worshiping pop punk to rockabilly to pure rock and roll, he’s shown an ability to apply his vision to both originals and covers. Now he’s back with a new song, this a cover of The Vaselines “Molly’s Lips” (also covered by Nirvana for Incesticide – the version I first heard and one that was on repeat in my house for a year or so).
Strong’s version plays tight to the original structure, melody, and general feel. It goes mid-tempo and never gets rushed and is suitably unpolished. The repetitive guitar parts are a bit cleaner and have a little less snarl than the Nirvana version, but with more bite than the Vaselines come at it with. The drums have a fun bounce and pop to them and Dave’s voice is in great form, carrying the singalong melody with ease. I love the guitar notes chiming on the bridge, too. A cover done well. Kudos.
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ryan is a reviewer and news editor for TGEFM. He’s very secretive, he might be an alien.
