Album Review: The Darlings

South Bay punk rockers, formed in 2005 in Hermosa Beach, CA. The Darlings’ proudly bring rock n’ roll back to the underground scene. Group members consists of  Buddy Harris (vocals/guitar), Josh Kearney (lead guitar/backups), Chris Kranes (bass/backups), and Josh Fasen (drums). Each member of the band brings their talent and musicianship to form a piece of the puzzle known as The Darlings. But just who are they? When asked to describe their sound, guitarist Josh Kearney said:

“Rock n’ roll meets punk, they go out and party all night pass out in a gutter, then wake up to go home to a bitchy wife and a dead end job.”

Armed with the skills, dedication and street-cred to back up their DIY attitude,  The Darlings have created a seven song, self titled, self released EP.  Although the group is considered punk-rock, their music is melodic and reaches a far more broad audience than just punk-rock. The Darlings know what they like, and they like it simple.

The energy of each song is high and the groups’ distinct punch-to-the-gut toughness is present throughout the EP.  My favorite cuts off the EP would have to be “It’s Gone” and “Love Story”.  With the first, “It’s Gone” we have a radio friendly song. This is where their ability to add rhythm to rock sounds and punk music stands out and makes the entire album a great listen. With “Love Story” it is the power of the fast paced sounds of the guitar and drums that carry the song. On this track they sound like vets on their instruments.

The album has a common dark, almost goth, undertone to it, especially on the track titled “Dead Light” where Buddy sings “I’ve come to take you away” and the fastest track on the album “Cruel world.” On “Lacerate” we have a story of realizing the way you are living is wrong and fighting your inner demons.

Unfortunately, many of the tracks bleed together and make all the songs sound too similar.  This album shows just how far this band can go but they haven’t met their full potential yet.

Watch The Darlings new video, “Where Do We Go?”

Upcoming Performances:

June 12 2009 8:00P Wasted Space w/ Strung OutLas Vegas, Nevada
June 25 2009 – 8:00P KROQ Locals Only at THE ROXY (ALL AGES SHOW) Hollywood, California