• Reviews

• All
• Music
• DVDs
• Live
• Cinema
• TV
• Books
• Comic Books
• Video Games

Jul 12, 2019 Web Exclusive By Matt the Raven

The third album from the Calvin sisters, Jessie and Jennifer, aka Bleached, may not break any new ground, but it certainly has its fair share of pointed and slightly off-beat, and also very good, pop punk.

On the surface, the straightforward rock rhythms are crisply played with an honest raw energy and tight chord progressions. But a deeper dive reveals a slightly more complex sound with bouncy counter-rhythms, playful beats, and surging guitar riffs. Topped off with a glossy vocal punch, the sound could be likened to a cross between Blondie and the Talking Heads.

Like most good records, Don’t You Think You Have Enough? requires a few good spins before the goodness sinks in. Most tracks are uncluttered with sharp driving rhythms that are catchy and upbeat. Singles “Hard to Kill” and “Rebound City” are the best examples and standout immediately. But its tracks such as “I Get What I Need” and “Silly Girl” that make the album interesting by shifting gears a bit to include some worldly rhythms, shifting beats, and animated rock elements.

The cohesiveness of the 12 tracks on the album show the songwriting has matured and that Bleached is focused on what they do best rather than exploring a new direction or sound. And what they do best is to soften the blow of punk’s raw energy with some pop hooks and sweet vocal melodies.

It would be easy for listeners to pass up on this familiar and charming punk pop prescription but they would be missing the point and missing out on some good ‘ole rock ‘n’ roll fun by a unique band that are simply intent on playing good music and having a good time. (www.hellobleached.com)

Author rating: 7/10