Tuff enuff
When
I was asked to name a lesser-known Brisbane band, my first thought
was I Heart Hiroshima. This was despite having never seen them
live and not really knowing what they sounded like (I’d
heard them, but mustn't have paid attention). Clearly they were
doing something right on the promotion side of things.
Well now I have given them a proper listen and there's
certainly no way they’ll be escaping my consciousness any
time soon. I recently invested in their debut album, Tuff
Teef, and it was one of the most satisfying purchases I’ve
made in a long time. At first I was a little put off by the rough
edges and raw sound, but this was quickly outweighed by how immersed
I became in the energy they create. Their lack of a bass player
is often cited as central to their sound, but to be honest, I
can barely notice it.
For me, the overwhelming factor that defines them
is the vocals. To give a rather crude explanation, it’s
pretty much two guys and a girl taking turns at yelling at you.
In writing, it sounds rather unappealing, but when you hear them
and really get to know their music, you’ll understand why
I consider it to be a positive. They've found the perfect level
of 'in your face' that makes you sit up and pay attention without
it getting on your nerves. I must admit that after a good 15 listens
in two weeks, it is beginning to wear away at me, but in moderation,
this is music to hold dear.
I’m really surprised that more wasn’t
made of this album, because it’s probably one of the best
to come out of Australia this year. I can’t wait to see
them live.
Peter Watts
For
more of Peter Watts' music reviews, check out his blog at Open
Your Eyes
