Monday, February 23, 2009
Monday, February 2, 2009
More Power, More Pop?
Powerpop supergroup, if there ever was one
We saw all kinds of genre-revivals in 2008 ranging from C86 revisionism (Vivian Girls) to 80s pomp (Rumble Strips). Okay, so once again the 80s were a common reference point for contemporary bands.
As genres like post-punk, synth-driven new wave, noise-pop, etc. have already been milked dry by most bands the past few years, (indie) rock in 2009 might just increasingly set its sights on the tighter, more guitar-driven, verse-bridge-chorus genre of Powerpop (or Pre-punk / Pub Rock, just think Dr. Feelgood).
Other than the standard argument that musical styles go in cycles, I’m mostly going to base this claim on one band : Gentleman Jesse and His Men. The band was featured in Mojo Magazine’s anticipated acts of 2009 and I feel that the band is representative of a potential (re)interest in the genre.
Basically, in the Mojo article, the band’s frontman claims to be sick of the bloated state of indie rock at the moment and is influenced instead by groups like Rockpile, the Raspberries, and Nick Lowe. Just like how these bands proved to be catchier, more energetic and straightforward alternatives to prog/arena/gassy rock back in the day, I'm sure there are bands today that have similar intentions (and song structures).
Well, let’s just see how it turns out. Yeah, with the economy, political climate, etc., etc. the way they are, 2009 is going to be quite the year. And it'll be interesting to see whether bands and artists follow the mostly dreamy, effects-laden, feedback-drenched sound of 2008 or whether they trim the fat (present times do demand frugality after all), a la Dr. Feelgood et al.
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