The Northeast US generates another gem: this time it's Connecticut punk act American Thrills. The band are gearing up for their sophomore EP "Old Things," recorded with producer Chris Teti who has done notable work for Run For Cover And Topshelf. The band is toting their new single entitled "Wandering" which features vocals from Andy (MF'N!!!) Jackson of Hot Rod Circuit, an added bonus to an already killer track.
I can appreciate a track that wastes no time getting to business, and I can see why the band chose this as their single. Within the first few measures, the sonic landscape is laid out: bright sounding guitars, a bass that cuts just right, a driving mid-tempo bear, and vocals with just enough grit. The band makes use of dynamics without losing steam, and hits me with creative and catchy melodies through the chorus just in time for a quick stop and a vocal hook ("FIIIIIIND ME WONDERINNNNN') that simultaneously finishes the chorus and guides me to the rest of the song. Andy's vocals add a nice touch to the bridge, perfectly serving the song rather than sounding like his voice was dropped in just to attach his name to the track.
I'm really excited to see where this band goes, especially since live music appears to be on the horizon. While more and more bands are filing themselves into the storytelling, midtempo, gritty-but-pretty punk (I just made that up, but you know what I'm talking about, right?), few do it as well as American Thrills. These guys should be touring with Red City Radio, The Lawrence Arms, Menzingers, and The Gaslight Anthem. Catch their new record "Old Things," out April 16th via New School Records and Cat's Claw Records.
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- Eddie Templeton