- Oh No Not Stereo
- 003
- Released Independently
- myspace.com/ohnonotstereo
Oh No Not Stereo – 003
Playing a high-energy version of straight up pop punk/alternative rock, Oh No Not Stereo come out of Southern California with both fists swinging. Falling somewhere between MxPx, Anberlin, and Jet, this technically-driven two piece seems to prefer their rock as big and loud as possible.
The guitar riffs are huge, and the melodies soar with unstoppable harmonies. The tones reveal top-notch production, which is important for a record that tries to be this rocking. These guys may listen to their share of metal or indie rock, but when it comes to writing their own music, they crank out catchy and powerful fist-pumping rock and roll.
Sometimes an album this focused and straight-forward can blend together and get boring, but Oh No Not Stereo’s 003 seems to avoid that problem with a few slower tracks like “12 Years Later,” which brings in acoustic guitars and a piano, or the darker jazzy sounds of “Brothers” that adds a classic rock flair to the guitars along with an organ and tambourine, both of which make several other appearances throughout the record. “Get Over It” is another grooving track with a big beat, and the slow piano ballad, “A World of Your Own,” shows the smart pop sensibilities of Oh No Not Stereo.
On the other hand, it’s really the crunching guitars that take the forefront of this record, which is why I would call it a strong pop-punk (like the golden days of Ghoti Hook and Slick Shoes, not the teeny-bopper version of Simple Plan or Stellar Kart). It’s a solid record from an obviously talented band, and I’d imagine they’ll be one to keep an eye on in the future.
8/10
Post Info
- Posted by: Eric
- Posted on: Thursday, March 12th, 2009
- Category: Album Reviews
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