If I were to level one criticism at rock music in general, it would be that, somewhere between rock and roll being replaced by classic rock as the dominant sonic sibling, it lost its sense of fun. If rock and roll had swing, groove, humor, and heart, if it didn’t take itself too seriously but was more about having a good time than massaging the individual ego, then the rock genre that followed seems driven by more self-centered forces. Suddenly, there were all these stone-faced men, often in big shorts and sporting complicated hair, making monolithic and overly earnest music, the pain of the effort clearly visible on their sweaty, chubby faces. And don’t get me started on metal!
I hoped that the point of the rock turning down an alternative was that it could redress this imbalance. But broadly speaking, it hasn’t, well, not until now. Thankfully, Frogmouth is a band that remembers how it used to be. They understand that it is okay to be serious about the art of making music, but that isn’t the same as taking yourself too seriously while doing it. Such an attitude is how the fun gets in, and Identity Thief, their latest album, is certainly fun.
But it is more than just a new take on alternative rock; elements of glam and punk help flavor things, as does a pop-accessibility and deft blend of muscle and melody. Nine songs that mix and match and meld and merge all manner of rock sub-genres and do so brilliantly.
“Easy Lies” eases us in, competent and comforting alt-rock that kicks arse and cuts the mustard…as we say here in the UK. But there are songs such as “Sleeping Dogs” which push in a more punkish direction but not at the expense of scintillating guitar breaks and gang vocals. “How Could I Not” is driven by a slightly country-punk/rockabilly kick, and “Would You Believe” captures the raw edge of those great 90’s college rock bands blended with just enough garage rock vibes to rough things up.
The album might not be out for a while (21st March), but it is only fair to give you an early heads-up and to tell you that you are going to want to grab it as soon as it is out. Singles will be heading your way between now and then, but save your allowance, hoard your disposable income, and, failing that, beg, borrow, or steal “ Identity Thief” as soon as is humanly possible.
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