by Beth KeatingI'm mentioning the Jesus and Mary Chain because I know it's unavoidable that San Diego-based band, Crocodiles, will draw comparison to the Glaswegian noise-rock legends. And while it's true you can easily make a list of bands that have influenced the young duo's sound, after listening to their first long-player, Summer of Hate, I'd argue there's nothing wrong with the point.
Noise-rock traditions that have been set by acts such as JAMC and Spacemen 3 permeate through the record. Like so many albums I've heard this year, most of the nine tracks aren't necessarily derivative - the sound is so apt and accurate, as well as the production techniques used - Summer of Hate could be mistaken as a lost relic of 1985.
I used to criticise bands who wore influence so openly - you know, Jet ripping off classic rock (and Iggy Pop!), Wolfmother taking Led Zeppelin fandom to the extreme - I feel kinda hypocritical in a way digging most of the music I do. After all, genres like psychedelia and shoegaze are waist-deep in rehashing the past. I know the same criticism could be given to Crocodiles' sound. Noise-rock has never been a genre that's been over-exposed (admittedly, I'm biased. The more white noise the better!), and while influence is eminent, Summer of Hate in no way sounds stale or uninspired.
The album's nine tightly wound songs fit together perfectly. What results is an EP which is concise, straight to the point - a great introduction to a new and promising act. The music is dark, evil, but ecstatic - like partying with the lights off. Ranging from straight up noise-rock to dangerous Suicide-edged debauched anthems, Summer of Hate in its entirety feels kinda wrong, whilst still being a lot of fun.
Related links:
Crocodiles Downloads
Crocodiles on Myspace
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