Reviews

Delia

Rarito Edición Especial Para Zurdos LP

Some of my favorite power pop of all time has come from Spain. This one starts off in super melodic fashion and features male and female vocals, which I’m a total sucker for. All the songs are in Spanish, which I quite enjoy. It sometimes bugs me that bands from non-English-speaking countries feel compelled to sing in English. Anyway, this is nicely done. The songs are on the shorter side, which is always good for my attention span. Mid-tempo, sometimes a little faster, and melodic always works for me. It also seems these guys might be a duo. I’ve got a soft spot in my heart for duos.

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.

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.