CRUISERWEIGHT
Sweet Weaponry (Doghouse/Heinous Records)
Reviewed by Shaun Dale

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Urny? Doesn't sound Texan to me, but there you have it. Urny Maxwell and his brother Yogi are veterans of the Texas indie rock scene. When their last band, Red Boxing, dissolved, they set about rebuilding a band and refining a sound methodically.

The first, and ultimately essential, step was to recruit their sister Stella as their lead vocalist. Eventually they added bassist Dave Hawkins, then set about creating that sound.

Pop punk is probably the inevitable first impression, and it's not exactly wrong. It's just totally inadequate. First of all, the inclusion of Stella's vocals separates the band from the typical pop punk testosterone overdose. Then there's the fact that you never know when they'll toss a classic girl group melodic twist your way, or break into a moment, or more, of anthemic arena rock worthy of the best hair bands of your youth.

In the end, it's all about the sound. Sweet Weaponry sounds great.

Track List:

Vermont * Goodbye Daily Sadness * At The End Of The Tunnel There Is Always A Shining Light * Passable * This Ain't No Beach Party * Phantom Rider * To Be Quite Honest * Vacation/Vacate * Dearest Drew * Operation Eyes Closed * Permanent Things * There You Are * Have You Had One Of Those Days?

© 2005 - Shaun Dale