Customer Reviews

Hello Hong Kong

5 star:		(2)
4 star:		(2)
3 star:		(1)
2 star:		(1)
1 star:		(1)

 

 

The Kicks have taken some (not entirely undeserved) dings for being too derivative--but to my ear, their supposed "knockoffs" sound like heartfelt tributes, and I continue to be puzzled by the harumph-ing attitude of those who would dismiss their songs as being "merely" catchy (as if "catchy" were just some label on a control-room button that a producer could push at his or her whim!) The Kicks' sound may at times lack focus--a little Cars here, a little Cure there--but their melodies are consistently and wonderfully hummable pop-rock charmers, and "Hong Kong"--a mix of four newly recorded tunes plus eight old numbers off their previous, indie-release "Radio"--is a perfect introduction to the band. Those curious should give "Ninety-Nine" a listen: Yes, it riffs lyrically off Weezer's "Pink Triangle," but if you aren't goosed by its giddy keyboard line, then this isn't the band for you. Of the new tracks, "Pretty One" is a swell, funny British-new-wave send-up, and it still baffles me that "Mir" has yet to receive the national airplay that it deserves.

These guys are freaking awesome! I live in Fayetteville, which is about 2 1/2 hours from Little Rock where these guys are from, so they play here alot. They have so much energy at their live show. If you like =W=eezer then your going to love these guys. I have been following the kicks for about five years now and their stuff never gets old! The only thing is that I wish they would have never changed their name from Ashtray Babyhead...ridiculous, but it works. Definitely check this band out!!

I don't know what some of the other reviewers are hearing- yes, the Kicks play derivative power-pop, but each song is great in it's own right, and the CD is probably one of the best this year. "Radar" is a great opener to the record, with it's frantic chorus and energetic beat, and there are also mellower songs like "12 Steps" and "Bomb". So, whatever mood you're in, The Kicks play perfectly crafted tunes that will stick with you for a long time.

Granted this album is fun to listen to. The problem, is that it almost the exact same record they release four years ago under the name Ashtray Babyhead. Plus i'm almost certain that they didn't even re-record the songs. LAME! Don't get me wrong, it's got a couple new songs that are awesome. But I think that if the last band you were in didn't make it, try again with something new. Don't just change your name! If you like this record you'll love Ridel High, AM Radio and of course Ashtray Babyhead.

The Kicks is from Little Rock, Arkansas. They are inspired by the punk sound of TSOL and the pop sensibility of The Cars. They have been together since 2000. "Radar" is like classic hardcore punk. It has anger and energy. "What Do I Have To Do?" is more melodic and more like English pop. "Satellite" is a cool song that is more like being in Los Angeles. They have a range of sounds. They are a talented bunch.

Don't get me wrong, this album is not entirely unlistenable... As far as pop punk goes, it's one of the better that I've heard, it's just not MY style. But, it may be yours.. so here's what it's like: If you enjoy pop punk bands like Good Charlotte, Yellowcard, & Dashboard Confessional, with prettyguys and high voices, then you'll probably love this album.
If you prefer groups like the Distillers, Rancid, or the Dirtbombs then steer clear of the Kicks.

Yes, all of the anti-hype on this band is true - it's all stuff you've heard before, feels entirely predictable, and is annoyingly repetitive. Sorry - look elsewhere for the next big thing.