The Exploding Hearts
Guitar Romantic
The Exploding Hearts are a real tragedy. Almost immediately after releasing their one and only album, Guitar Romantic, three of the four band members died in a horrific car accident. Judging from the legacy they left behind, one can only dream of what they could have acheived. Alas, all that is left is this gloriously rambunctious album.
Clocking in at just under 30 minutes, this a rip-roaring, effortlessly energetic piece full to the brim with some of most joyous hooks and choruses you'll ever hear. Drawing influences from The Buzz****s, The Only Ones and New York Dolls, the band plays a brand of Punk Rock bordering on Power Pop with absolute abandon. There is no fear, no holding back - just the sound of sheer enjoyment and excitement.
This isnt to say the album lacks any discipline or measure. These four young guys were evidently masters of the pop song as an art-form. There isnt a wasted note as the band go straight for the gonads, pummelling the listener with distorted hook after distorted hook as lead singer Adam Cox howls licentious tales of adolescence.
Songs such as Modern Kicks and Rumours in Town are, to me, pop perfection, taking you back to the best material the Buzz****s and New York Dolls could muster.
This album will make you feel alive. There is no better way to put it.