Varonas

Reviews

Varonas V​í​timas del Ritmo LP

VARONAS’ Vítimas del Ritmo (translated: “Victims of Rhythm”) is the debut LP from this Madrid four-piece featuring vets from MALLORY KNOX, THEE GIRLFRIENDS, THEE SUCKIN’ DICKS, and RADIO ZOO. The music meanders between garage rock, power pop, and straight-up ’70s-style rock’n’roll, with dual vocals from guitarist Vanessa Herrero and bassist Gema Bañares that are intended to channel a B-52’S vibe. While the album has its moments, including a cover of “Love Shack,” the vocals sometimes lack the strength that could have taken it to the next level. It’s fun and really not bad at all, but it could’ve been a lot punchier. Check out “Es a Mí” if you want a taste.

Varonas Instinto Animal EP

Given that there are Spanish labels involved here and the songs are sung in Spanish, I’m going to go out on a limb and suggest that these folks might be Spanish. Whether or not that’s true, if you’re a fan of female-fronted, sometimes up-tempo power pop with a focus on the vocals, this is likely for you. There’s nothing that says that your punk rock or power pop can’t come from someone with a pretty voice. Three quick songs, and just like that, it’s over. Well-played and well-produced. I wanted more.