The Sounds
Weekend
Arnioki Records/INgroove
9/10
The Sounds newest release, Weekend, has the band going the self release route after a brief stint on Side One Dummy Records. I was a bit surprised by the move but sometimes it’s for the best to do things on your own. The record itself is fantastic and could easily be their best since 2006’s Dying to Say This to You which is hands down my favorite record from their discography.
This latest effort sees the band stepping back a bit from the sound they crafted on Something to Die For and getting rid of some of the electronic influence found on that release. I think the move definitely helps the band create a rawer sound that is a better reflection of their live sound which is something i greatly enjoyed as I’m not one for extraneous bells and whistles in regards to production. Not to mention I’ve just never been too big on electronic music anyway. Also present was a healthy variance in energy from very poppy and upbeat songs like “young and wild” and “outlaw” to some more mellow jams like the title track, “weekend”. Regardless of the tempo each song on this album is guaranteed to get you singing along and maybe bumping your booty a bit. Results and levels of booty bumping may vary from individual to individual.
From beginning to end The Sounds have shown why they have the strong fan base that they do; their ability to write a damn good song has yet to falter even on their 5th record album and I doubt that will change anytime soon. This record is sure to be an instant hit for new and old fans alike; a definite must buy album. However, if you have yet to be won over by the band thus far you probably won’t be swayed by this album.