Canadian punk rock might not inspire great confidence in the casual rock fan right now with the likes of Sum 41 around, so the Constantines are a refreshing discovery.
Canadian punk rock might not inspire great confidence in the casual rock fan right now with the likes of Sum 41 around, so the Constantines are a refreshing discovery.
Coming at you with Fugazi punk and Springsteen-esque vocals, the band recall memories of a Sub Pop era when Nirvana were just a twinkle in the label's eyes. Ambitious opener 'National Hum' sounds polished but retains a rawness that continues throughout the album. However, the band know better than to just belt out loud, punk numbers and have mastered a melodic soul akin to bands like the Replacements. Fraught and dark in places such as anthemic single 'Nightime/Anytime (It‚s Alright)', the songs offered the listener an intelligent angle so often lacking in rock today.
The album shifts kicking and screaming to its rousing climax with closer ‘Sub-Domestic’… leaving you reminiscing an Intense, melodic and original journey. The album is bound to fly over the collective head, but the breathtaking vain of ‘Shine A Light’ begs you not to ignore it.
~Michael J8.
