Labels: Dirtnap
Review by: Oli Saunders
The Marked Men are gone, at least for a while, but in The Potential Johns their spirit is very much kept alive. I find it hard to describe the difference in sound between the two bands – I guess it mainly comes down to the latter being a bit mellower. But the catchy powerpop / pop punk is still there in full effect and I adore it, though it took me a while to get into originally. The label description says the sound is more reflective and bittersweet too which I agree with.
This is definitely the best stuff that The Potential Johns have written so far. I’ve heard early demos and maybe a 7” or two as well as the 12” split with Chinese Telephones. They are solid and enjoyable at times but don’t generally stand out. Having said that there are some gems amongst the vast array of songs the band appear to have. This 7” is definitely a step in the right direction, containing two songs that are both great. I like the more melancholic feel this band have, whilst it is still a sound you could get up and dance around the room to. The songs contrast sufficiently too and I find it hard to pick my favourite; maybe the second song ‘Past Due’ edges it because I love the bit where the drums get higher in the mix and the song in general gets me going a bit more. Overall, The Potential Johns deserve more of a following and this is the perfect start if you like this alternative style of pop punk, and in particular if you have enjoyed the Marked Men over the years.
11th June 2010