FEBRUARY 2009 ONLINE EDITORIALS

The Knew - Boom Bust

By Greta Cornett

This album is set to be legendary in Colorado. Recorded with Bryan Feuchtinger of Hot IQs fame, this six-song record delivers a rhythmic snarl reminiscent of a rock anthem band doing the nasty with new wave hipsters.

Boom Bust delivers something that has been lacking with local releases. It not only captures a great sound, but really puts the audience in tune with the band. With the first listen, you get an idea of who these guys are: scruffy, hip seventies-inspired musicians who ooze cool as they swagger down the street.

The songs are well thought out. They have great riffs, the lyrics are inspired, and they choose the right chords. The bottom line is they are true rock compositions. The musicianship is so unique that every instrument in the band is playing a melody. That approach is more similar to a good soul or funk band rather than a rock band.

“Coldblack” is hands down the best song on the album. The drum and slide guitar intro is emotional and immediately connects you to the song. It evolves into a retro dance rock piece, but continues to evoke that first strong feeling within the listener.

“Revolver” is a close second. It brings in some blues harmonica, some southern guitar chords; the vocals are soothing, and just as quickly the bands takes you to British mod dabbling in some London punk.

Mark my words, The Knew are going places, and Boom Bust is just one tool to take them there. Regardless of what type of music you think you like, this album is across the board a keeper and I highly recommend it.