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Dave Hause – Paddy
Self-released – Release Date: 10/23/20
Last month, Dave Hause released a pair of new EPs. One is called Patty and features covers of Patty Griffin songs, while the other, Paddy, contains songs written by Patrick “Paddy” Costello of Dillinger Four. This review will focus solely on the Paddy EP, as I am much more familiar with the work of D4. In a few words, Hause has done a masterful job of reimagining these songs in a stripped-down, acoustic fashion. His interpretations draw the lyrics to the forefront and illustrate just how relevant Dillinger Four’s message remains after many years.
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Dillinger Four
Photo by Katie Hovland
Last month, Dillinger Four played the Double Door as part of a brief tour commemorating their 21st anniversary as a band. After the string of shows wrapped up, we talked with singer/bassist Patrick “Paddy” Costello about how everything went. We also discussed the band’s history, including some of the more noteworthy shows they’ve played in Chicago over the years. In addition, we conversed about D4’s most recent album, Civil War, and Costello touched on some of what they have planned for next year, which involves releasing new material and more touring.
Success – Radio Recovery
Red Scare – Release Date: 3/31/15
Success is an up-and-coming band from Seattle and Radio Recovery marks their Red Scare debut. The band’s sound could likely be described as a cross between Borders & Boundaries-era Less Thank Jake and early Dillinger Four, with an emphasis on positive lyrics. Oftentimes the term “sing-along anthem” gets thrown around too frequently, but in this case it’s a suitable description for many of their songs. Take for instance the album’s second track, “22nd St.,” which starts off with a galloping bass line that powers its way to a fiery chorus. Singer Aaron Rev delivers a passionate and guttural shout, exclaiming “There’s no light on 22nd St./There’s no more help for us/For every second passing by/There’s another chance to get out and make things right,” and the listener can’t help but want to pump their fist in the air and scream the words right back. “Revolution…” addresses trends in the punk community and takes aim at music that prioritizes fashion over a message. The song’s chorus utilizes powerful gang vocals and asks, “Where, where is the revolution?” It’s sung with such conviction and really seems like the band is urging its audience to take action and stand up for what they believe in. Another bright spot is “Lives That We Deserve,” a track that captures nearly all the best attributes of Success. There are distinctive vocal melodies, notable guitar riffs and lyrics about overcoming daily struggles in hopes of achieving a better life. Perhaps what’s most appealing about this band is their unabashed approach. They’re not attempting to capitalize on the latest fad, they’re simply writing honest songs that try to inspire. Check out “Lives That We Deserve” below for a break from a lot of the contrived and cynical stuff that’s out there today.
[audio:http://www.jadedinchicago.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/05/06-Lives-That-We-Deserve.mp3|titles= “Lives That We Deserve”]
The Brokedowns – “Born on the Bayou Too”
Cover art by Matt Semke
Back in December, The Brokedowns released their second album for Red Scare Industries, entitled Life Is a Breeze. Containing 16 songs in total, the record is not only comprehensive, but also a good representation of the band’s best characteristics. There are influences of Dillinger Four and Hot Snakes to be found, but those are overshadowed by The Brokedowns’ unique take on Midwestern punk and the sheer amount of aggression they generate in their songwriting. This Sunday, 3/01, they’re playing Beat Kitchen, along with Meat Wave, Canadian Rifle and Foul Tip. The show starts at 8:00 PM, is 17+ and costs $8. Check out a track from Life Is a Breeze below, called “Born on the Bayou Too.”
[audio:http://www.jadedinchicago.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/06-Born-On-The-Bayou-Too.mp3|titles= “Born on the Bayou Too”]
Dillinger Four Interview, 2000
In the spring of 2000, we interviewed Dillinger Four before the release of their milestone album, Versus God. This full-length in particular found the band sharpening their sound and taking their songwriting to a new level. We spoke with singer/guitarist Erik Funk and singer/bassist Patrick Costello before one of their shows at Fireside Bowl. We talked from inside D4’s van about the record, including its lyrics and the motivation behind its title. We also conversed about the band’s relationship with Billie Joe from Green Day, a memorable appearance at South by Southwest, The Triple Rock and more. Continue Reading…
The Arrivals
Photo by Katie Hovland
For over ten years, The Arrivals have been a mainstay of Chicago’s punk rock community. With each album they evolve and the latest full-length, Volatile Molotov, represents some of their most ambitious work yet. We discussed the new record with singer/guitarists Isaac Thotz and Dave Merriman, along with a variety of additional topics. Continue Reading…
Fat Music Vol. 7: Harder, Fatter + Louder!
Fat Wreck Chords compilation, featuring 22 songs and photos from JIC’s Katie Hovland. Release date: 11/23/10
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