Search - Romantics :: National Breakout

Another supercharged power-pop explosion from the Romantics!

J. McDonald | 03/07/2006

(5 out of 5 stars)

"The Romantics have delivered some of the best power-pop and garage rock of the last 25 years. Taking a cue from the early Kinks, Rolling Stones and the Who, the Romantics excel at beat and riff driven rock 'n roll. If you're a fan of any of the aforementioned "legendary" rock acts from the 60's and have never taken a listen to the Romantics you'll be amazed at the sonic GOLD they created! Fans of modern "revival" groups like JET should certainly check out the Romantics.



Nothing quite compares to the debut release by the Romantics, but "national breakout" is a very strong release with some very cool tracks.



Tomboy - a bit weak lyrically, but strong on riffs.

Forever Yours - The Romantics deliver some sweet power-pop.

Stone Pony - Plenty of Power Riffs here! Great song!

New Cover Story - Another "sweet" power-pop effort.

A Night Like This - More Riffs from garage heaven!

National Breakout - Lots of Power on this Track!

21 and Over - Cool!

I Can't tell you anything - Kind of sounds like a Rolling Stones song.

Take Me Out of the Rain - A great "pop" effort. Very Cool!

Friday at the Hideout - An Amazing track, the RIFFS will blow you out of your chair!

Poor Little Rich Girl - Great track with a "fierce" ending.



There isn't anything on this release on the scale of "What I like About You" or many of the other essential tracks off of the debut effort, but a song like "Friday at the Hideout" cannot go overlooked, it's a garage rock classic!



The Romantics would falter (only once) with their next release titled "strictly personal" (due to the HORRIBLE production of Mike Stone). They would recover nicely with "In Heat", an effort that would finally generate two top 40 hits (One in a Million and Talking in Your Sleep) and which had some major riff driven tracks like "Rock You Up", "Got Me Where You Want Me" and "Love Me to the Max". Strong releases "Rhythm Romance", "Made in Detroit" and "61/49" would follow.



If you consider yourself a fan of Power-Pop, Mod, or Garage Rock and you don't own this release, your collection is not complete!



-JM"