Misc Radio Leakage is a refreshing breath of air in all this new wave, retro nonsense that seems to be hitting the airwaves lately. Taking more of a page from Mark E. Smith than Simon Le Bon, they pour down smart, angular and snappy songs that have deep roots somewhere between early UK post punk and the more accessible works of Sonic Youth.
The band is all about texture, dynamics and room within the foundation. From the machine like drive of “It All Falls Apart” with its psycho bedroom confession vocals and twisted chunk and bell guitars to the chirp jazz intro of “Sissy Resist” to the Pere Ubu-like “The Kids Are Coming”, the Dont’s have an incredible grasp on the melody of groove.
The shining diamond of this record is “Little Doggie Chew”. A dirty, guitar-driven pulse with upfront vocals and catchy methadone backup punches espousing lyrical desire “just to be like you little doggy chew.” This is grandiose nonsensical confusion reminiscent of James Osterberg back in his heyday.
Best Behavior chops it out with pontificating thrum. The atonal guitar and vintage Stranglers vocal play make this a stand out track as well.
A fine record worthy of many a repeated listening, Misc Radio Leakage is one to check out. This band is intent on taking no prisoners, only converts. I count myself a convert.
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