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V/A – Asian Man Music for Asian Man…
Asian Man Records – Release Date: 6/10/16
Last month, Asian Man Records celebrated its 20th anniversary and also released a new compilation, titled Asian Man Music for Asian Man People Vol. 2. It features artists on the label’s roster covering other Asian Man bands, and primarily showcases up-and-coming acts. One of the first noteworthy tracks comes from Scotland’s Murderburgers and their cover of the AJJ tune “Self Esteem.” It’s a decidedly pop punk take on the song and is filled with hooks and well-placed backing vocals. If it’s any indication of what’s to come on their upcoming full-length, then fans should certainly be excited for the record’s release this fall. San Francisco’s Great Apes provide a blistering, lightning-fast interpretation of “Last Strike,” originally by Classics of Love. It emphasizes rawness and ferocity despite being precisely arranged, and is yet another example of how talented this seriously underrated band is. Chicago’s Dowsing delivers an inspired and distinctive take on the Alkaline Trio classic “San Francisco,” which is sure to remind old school fans of why they fell in love with the band in the first place. Laura Stevenson selected another renowned Chicago band to cover in Smoking Popes, contributing a compelling, stripped-down interpretation of their fan-favorite “Do Something.” Additional highlights include covers by Kevin Seconds, Modern Baseball, Jeff Rosenstock and Spraynard. This compilation is recommended for those wanting to relive some of their favorite Asian Man memories, as well as those looking to become familiar with several of the label’s emerging and talented bands.
Classics of Love – Self-titled
Asian Man Records – Release Date: 2/14/12
Classics of Love started in 2008 and is of course fronted by former Operation Ivy vocalist Jesse Michaels. The band’s lineup is rounded out by the members of a group called Hard Girls and this debut full-length is their first release since a 2009 EP called Walking in Shadows. What’s evident after only a few listens of the new album is how much Classics of Love has developed over the last three years. The music and lyrics flow together seamlessly, showcasing four individuals that have grown quite adept at playing together. There’s also a definite and genuine sense of urgency found throughout the record, which is something that simply can’t be manufactured. It’s reminiscent of one of the characteristics that made Operation Ivy so great, but make no mistake, Classics of Love is indeed a unique band with its own distinct sound. Their influences include ‘80s West Coast hardcore, ska/punk and frenzied, fast-paced rock, but perhaps most impressive is the band’s ability to frame these various genres into one cohesive style. The production, courtesy of Jack Shirley, is raw and energy-packed, and really complements the songs. The lyrics speak of disenchantment, corruption of power and an opposition to various injustices, all of which are things that most can likely relate to nowadays. By all accounts, Classics of Love has made a comprehensive and highly impressive introductory album. Its songs are passionate and to the point, and in the best possible way, they leave the listener wanting more. Check out one of them below, called “Dissolve.”
[audio:http://www.jadedinchicago.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/12-Dissolve.mp3|titles=Dissolve]Follow Us
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