Under Suspicion [ENHANCED]

Madcap

Product Details

• Audio CD (February 24, 2004)
• Original Release Date: February 24, 2004
• Number of Discs: 1
• Format: Enhanced
• Label: Victory Records
• ASIN: B00018Y0R0
• In-Print Editions: MP3 Download
• Average Customer Review: 4.2 out of 5 stars See all reviews (6 customer reviews)
• Amazon.com Sales Rank: #56,413 in Music (See Bestsellers in Music)

Editorial Reviews

About the Artist
Home is where the heart is, and for Madcap, that isn't a house, an apartment or even their tour van - it is in the meaning they derive from writing and recording music, as well in listening to the artists they love. Honesty, passion, faith and persistence are the cornerstones of Madcap's philosophy, and they show an amazing ability to instill those beliefs in songs about love, rebellion, and personal struggle. Madcap began playing punk rock in the style of their idols in bands like The Jam, Buzzcocks and the Clash, but as they have grown, they began incorporating ideas drawn from studying the music of rock artists like Elvis Costello, Bruce Springsteen and U2. "I was listening to some of my favorite bands and thinking about the process of making each album so different from the one before, but always creating classic songs. I wanted to take our band from the simpler power chords of punk into rock songs with more depth." Johnny explained.

The band formed in Southern California in 1999, and began working with Side One Dummy Records, recording two albums for the L.A. label. "East To West" established the band as a force to be reckoned with on the punk scene, non-stop touring reinforced their presence. After some personnel changes, they found the crew that fit perfectly. Bassist Lee, group founder, recruited Johnny from the audience. He became Madcap's manager and eventually learned to play guitar, taking over as front man. They soon recruited drummer Jake, who joined the band while he was a junior in high school. "Jake is only 20, but I think he is one of the most solid players out there." Lee said, "Things fell into place when we got Ace, he is a great lead guitarist and he just plays with a lot of heart and passion. We finally have the lineup I always envisioned, and when the chemistry is there you can just feel it." Madcap's next step was to find a label that understood their vision and was prepared to support it. Victory Records stepped in, signed the band, and the final piece of the puzzle was in place.

Madcap settled into a rehearsal space to write, emerging with a collection of songs that would become "Under Suspicion," drawing from 80's rock, reggae, dub and punk. "Under Suspicion" is a reggae tinged tune with an Elvis Costello vibe, while "Keep Dancin' " is an organ-laced rocker about perseverance, and having fun instead of giving up. "Lovesick" is a heartbreaking love song with an 80's dance groove that showcases Johnny's vocals. "We used a vintage Fairchild compressor for the vocals, which was great, but a little bittersweet because the artist who had used it last was Johnny Cash. I love the way it gives the vocals a little bit of an older sound," Johnny explained. "Youth Explosion" is a catchy anthem about rebelling against the ruling class. "I was talking to this businessman once, and he kept telling me that I needed to conform or there is no way I could succeed. It's just a big fuck you to anyone who judges others by the way they dress!" laughed Johnny.

"Captain" Ted Hutt was brought in to produce the album. Madcap worked with Hutt on their previous albums and feel a bond with him that makes recording sessions comfortable. "I think he sees a little of himself in us, and we see a little of ourselves in him. That is what is the most important thing when you are working on music, to be able to relate to each other. This record was fun, we had a lot of spontaneous stuff happening like people playing bottles and tin trays for percussion!" said Johnny. The stellar horns of Catch 22 enhanced "Searching For Ground" and friend Rami Jaffee of the Wallflowers contributed outstanding organ to "Keep Dancin," "Somewhere In The City" and "Under Suspicion."

Madcap are quickly establishing themselves as one of America's definitive rock bands. "Under Suspicion" is more adventuresome than their previous efforts (2001's "Stand Your Ground" and 2002's "East To West") however the urgency and the anthems remain.

Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

2 of 2 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Amazing CD, Revival of true rock and roll!!, June 17, 2004

By	Mark Davis (Chicago, IL United States) - See all my reviews

This CD is amazing, I dont have enough good things to say about it. From beginning to end. It's definately the most original record i've heard so far this year. They showcase many different styles, like rock, punk, dub, reggae, and pop and combine them together for a sound that is reminiscent of early uk bands, but still uniquely there own. If you like rock bands like the clash, the jam, the ruts, and elvis costello and the attractions this records for you. In a music scene filled with copycats and wannabes madcap is a breath of fresh air. BUY THIS RECORD!!!

2 of 2 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Excellent for a new Punk Band w/ a reminiscent old sound, March 31, 2004

By	N. Damiano "[e-mail]" (NH , CT) - See all my reviews (REAL NAME)

I picked this CD up on a whim in record store, I saw it in shelf and decided to give this new LA punk quartet a try and glad I did. This is coming from a person who grew up listening to The Jam, The Replacements, Pixies, old REM & The Clash. So this was completely new for me. I have to say this album is amazing every track is appealing its reminiscent of The Clash & The Jam sound. The leads singers voice sounds like Elvis Costello a little bit. Stand out tracks are Under Suspicion which is my fave on CD, Searching for Ground, Lovesick, & Turnaround. But every track on here is good. I was very surprised for a new quote on qoute punk band. I can't get it out of my CD player. One of the best albums of 2004. Very catchy album find yourself humming to the songs, you will not skip tracks on this one.

1 of 1 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars A Student and fan of punk, March 9, 2004

By	Kristy Potempa (Lake Zurich, IL United States) - See all my reviews

Madcap really did it with this album. I am in awe of the music they came up with. It is amazing and innovative. I love the 80's twist on a few songs, that turned my head to start liking 80's music. Above all this is by far the band's best album to date. My favorite tracks are; Youth Explosion, Under Suspicion and Lovesick. Go and buy this album because it's a must for any punk fan!!