Free Energy

I'm not sure I can put my finger on why Free Energy fills the same spot in my mind as other American/East Coast bands like The Strokes and The Virgins, but there's definitely some tonal or melodic common thread here.

Which is not to say they sound exactly like either of those bands. I'd say even with some commonalities, Free Energy still sounds fresh and unique right now. Obviously, the 80s synth sound isn't unique. But Free Energy isn't bringing it o you with an electro dance beat. These synths are more Hall and Oates than Missing Persons, and are much more about having a good time than rocking the house. Obviously, other alluring factors for me are the power pop lyricism and melodies. In my opinion, the more bands we can get that evoke Cheap Trick, Sloan or the Webb Brothers, the better.

And on top of all this, they are on DFA. Proof again DFA has very very few missteps.

The Virgins

I saw the Virgins on the Nylon tour earlier this summer with One2Ten faves, Be Your Own Pet, and was pretty impressed. The songs are very Elvis Costello pop and the guys seem to really know how to whip the young girls to a nice froth. Good stage presence and good songs.

Now they have taken it to the next level with what might be the best video I have seen in years. Please note for all non-NYC residents, this may not translate as easily. Let me explain... on NYC public access for about the last 30 years, one of the few things you could count on was Robin Byrd. She brought to the airwaves something everyone wants: strippers. (Yes, she had to fight the law and she won, but that's a much bigger story.) To this day, if you want to see some great early 80s strippers, male or female, all you have to do is tune into channel 33 late night and you can get your fill. It's quite entertaining. It seems that the Virgins agree. To get the full extent of the awesome-ness of this video and its origins, watch this first: Robin Byrd

Then watch this:



And the song rules too. I give the following track a 7.5:
The Virgins- Private Affair