Labels: Snuffy Smile
Review by: Andy Malcolm
More split 7″ shenanigans from the folks at Snuffy Smile records in Japan. Rejoice. Maybe.
Oval are one of the less inspiring bands I have heard on the label alas, they go for a pretty trad melodic punk sound that could be the derivative of any number of superior UK bands of the past few years. Broccoli, Leatherface, Hooton”¦ yeah, if you’re from the land of the Brit then chances are you’ll know this style backwards and won’t be particularly thrilled by Oval’s take on it. The music is performed solidly enough, buzzing guitars, a lot of melody, strained vocals, nice poppy breakdowns. Tally them up! Oval have them. And it’s scary, because “Water” is practically a Leatherface cover for the first 30 seconds. I just can’t figure out which “face song though. Tsk. Anyways, I already said, this band is solid, just nothing new.
The Leatherface tributes continue on the b-side, courtesy of Tiltwheel. The nearest thing that the US has to that band. Fortunately, Tiltwheel aren’t so bold as to nobble a few of Frankies riffs and record them as their own. Instead, they steal someone elses. And who is that? Cher! They opt for a cover of Cher’s “Believe”, but without those effect addled vocals. I didn’t figure out what song this was a cover of till half way through. Heh. They do a great job. Fast paced, tuneful punk rock. Can’t knock it. The other song they have here, the endearingly entitled “Can’t Remember Shit” is a rocker too. This actually more reminds me of Radon, a comparison that no-one should be ashamed of. It also reminds me of the last track off the Hated’s bootleg 12″. Fucking yes. Wonderful punk rock. If only it all sounded this good.
What I’ve heard of Tiltwheel has totally impressed me. I think you’d enjoy this band if you’re into any of the afforementioned stuff. And Oval provides a nice compliment on the B. Solid split.