Graham Reid | | <1 min read
The Fleshtones: Tear for Tear
New York's Fleshtones have been cranking out raw rock'n'roll since the mid Seventies and their schtick is to trawl the history of the genre (girl groups, garageband rock, punk etc) and shape it to their own ends.
They've gone through quite a few members but their guests have included Fred Smith of Television and Clem Burke from Blondie, who probably just liked the idea of letting their hair down on some familiar and fun chords and beats.
This album -- their umpteenth by my count -- has so many reference points ("remem berthe ramones" is a great syllable-breaking chorus) and enjoyable styles thrown in the mix (guitar jangle, Thin Lizzy-meets-AC./DC, Bowie at his most poncy) that it sounds like a jukebox on random play.
Guest this time is Mary Huff from Southern Culture on the Skids who brings some terrific girl-group moves and there's a lovely Jersey Shore singalong on What I've Done Before.
Just for a Smile should be a hit, it's that silly-good-catchy.
Sort of a straight-faced parody in places.
Mixed results but like any good jukebox you're bound to find at least a few songs you'll like.
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