SIX GOING ON SEVEN
American't (Or Won't) (Big Wheel/Doghouse)
Reviewed by Shaun Dale

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Boston-based Six Going On Seven use their third release (and Big Wheel Recreation/Doghouse Records debut) to stake their claim as the ultimate pop music power trio. I don't know if they've built an impregnable wall around the territory, but they've got a pretty tall fence up, at least.

Bassist/vocalist Josh English has a classic pop voice, and seems to understand exactly how important his instrument is to pop music, especially in a limited lineup. James Bransford is equally adept at filling the challenging role of playing the only true melody instrument a band, but still having important rhythm duties. It's a role that was perhaps best defined by Pete Townshend in the Who's early prime, and Bransford lives up to the standard. Meanwhile, Will Bartlett holds down the bottom with rock solid precision on the drum kit. Together, they're a terrific band.

Of course, great players do their best with great material, and the songs on American't (Or Won't) have all the earmarks of power pop classics, drawing inspiration from sources like Elvis Costello, the Police and Rick Springfield, but fashioning those influences into something completely and compellingly fresh.

These guys are ready to break out of the local legends category. Definitely worth adding to your "check it out soon" list.

Track List:

Readying * Television Show * Famous For It * "As Is" * Lately * Finish Them Off * #7 * Good On Paper * (american't) * A/K/A

© 2001 - Shaun Dale