The Modernes – The Modernes EP (Independent)
The Modernes (a three-piece from
Akron, Ohio) play a vigorous, vibrant form of amped-up Americana on their debut
collection, which incorporates a host of different styles from surf and rockabilly
to exuberant roots rock. It’s an intoxicating blend, which is as much fun for
the listener as it sounds to be for the band.
The five tracks are bookended by a
pair of instrumentals ‘Suburban Wave’ and ‘Inland Island’, both of which pay
homage to the great surf tunes of the early ‘60s, though played with garageland
finesse, which suits them to a tee.
Unafraid of the big cover tune,
tucked in at number four is a fine version of Johnny Cash’ ‘Big River’.
Guitarist (and vocalist) Bert Franco simply doesn’t let up, splashing big
juddery chords throughout, and he’s ably supported by a rhythm section that’s
well up for the ride.
‘Last Train Home’ may well be the
pick of the bunch. Classic western themes collide with raggedy instrumental
prowess, and the whole becomes something of a rootsy tour-de-force. It’s run
close by ‘Rocking Wild’ a rockabilly number with a sparse spiky energy that
more than lives up to its title.
Rollo
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