BANDS:

Punk & Ska
80's New Wave/
Post-Punk/
College Bands
90's & Beyond
Virginia, North
Carolina, & DC

Wynkataug Monks: (Tanks)
[Lovely]

Stepping onto the scene twenty-five years a little too late, The Wynkataug Monks sound like they're the spotlight-hungry little brothers of proto-punk bands such as Television or the Voidoids. Combining punk rock sensibility with an art rock understanding, these Pittsburgh natives carve an interesting sound for themselves. Their debut EP crashes onto the scene with vitality and a unique presence, while remaining subdued at basement quality with that old DIY attitude. My major qualms with this EP are too many 'woo-ooh-ooh's and the recording levels. However, the recording levels are an easily dismissible concern because of the self-production; it wouldn't hurt to have some louder crunching guitars, heavier drums and cracking vocals. It sounds like they're holding back a little too much in front of the studio equipment. That said, this is their debut EP, and the production is not that big of an issue. On the other hand, the first two tracks on this four-song EP contain repetitive 'woo-ooh's that dry up the songs a bit. It feels a little too clichd and overused in the guitar rock world. Within the music, the dual guitars create an interesting juxtaposition at times and see to it that there is always something ear-catching happening. The vocals are great strained, nasally and a bit shaky with melodies that fit the music perfectly. It all keeps the songs moving forward.

This is a good debut effort. If these guys come to your town, I would definitely go see them. It sounds like they have a lot of energy to offer.

This album can be purchased at Lovely Recordings

Wynkataug Monks Official Website

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