Search - Tantrums :: Motels

This will be The Next Big Thing!

06/09/2002

(5 out of 5 stars)

"This band is one of the Bay Area's best-kept secrets, but everyone should know about them! Lead-singer Devil Doll is one hot babe, and their guitar player is awesome. The music is a totally original combination of rockabilly, punk, and 50's style rock n' roll. Why hasn't some big label snatched these guys up?"

An Extremely Underrated Band

bluehighway | the USA, baby! | 08/03/2005

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Anyone who follows the rockabilly genre should know about the Tantrums. "Motels" is the followup to their "Big Dress" 7 inch and the band is for the most part overlooked and underrated, while their fellow Bay Area alum become richer and more successful. Pop punk fans should note that the Tantrums features Pete Rypins from many Bay Area bands such as Tilt and Crimpshrine co-writing, guitar playing, and occasionally providing back-up vocals. His infectious creativity in the Tantrums is a showcase of his range and appreciation for rock and roll roots music. This is complimented by the soulful vocals provided by frontwoman Devil Doll. A tiny woman with a booming voice that blows her contemporaries out of the water.



In comparison, while other rockabilly darlings such as the Horrorpops have their look down to a science, the Tantrums have the goods to back it up. After you hear their cover of "Midnight Blues"(as made famous by Charlie Rich), you will see that panty-flashing "cheerleaders" and onstage antics are unnecessary to appreciate the band and their talent. The original 5 tracks on this EP are reminicent of early Sun Records themselves. They are both charming and addictive.



The first track "Knife in My Heart" possesses an upbeat rhythm and clever lyrical portayal of a woman scorned. The dark sentiment accompanied by the upbeat music demands your attention. The second track "Shannon Jones" is seemingly about a relationship barely kept alive through postcard correspondence and is a standout of the EP. The third track, "Motels" is a lusty and bluesy break from the EP's brazen spirit. "Friend in Need" is the definitive track for the Tantrums. It is the introductory song for new listeners. The last song "When I Was Good" displays poised energy and only make you wish that there were a few more songs.



If you want a break from rockabilly or psychobilly that only focuses on hot rods and dead women, this is the album for you. If you are sick of pompous dance-punk, masculine fashion metal, or self-deprecating emo then spend a few dollars on this EP. Consider it a vacation from image-obsession and a rite of passage for the rockabilly listener."