Self-described “authentic ’60s garage punk” from the UK. Twelve fuzzy songs, riddled with bass leads and Farfisa organ stabs, but where’s the punk? While the band manages to capture the saccharine sounds of the late ’60s, they fail to capture any ferocity or attitude. Simply put, they excel at crafting and performing psychedelic garage rock that doesn’t actually rock.
This is pretty straightforward. You’ve got a band firmly rooted in ’60s garage rock covering two ’60s garage rock tunes. The first one is a slower number, full of organ and tambourine. Combined with some very somber vocals, it definitely creates its own darkness. The B-side continues along the same lines, though this cut is definitely more upbeat and a more catchy number. Still, with both cuts, the lack of a real drum presence is noticeable. All that said, I find myself strangely drawn to the record. There’s something interesting in there that draws me in. This one is perfect for a series by Back to Beat called “Moody Garage.” It is just that.
Two songs of authentic ’60s-style garage rock. If you’re going to do it, do it right. The HIGHER STATE does. They have that great organ sound leading the jangly rhythms topped with laid-back vocals. It’s not quite the summer of love, but someone may have some flowers in their hair. Fun stuff.
