Paulopolis, the new album from Minneapolis band Luke’s Angels, is Veruca Salt if they could write more consistently catchy pop songs. With the dueling female singers, guitar string slides, and straightahead rock sound the gals (and guys) of Luke’s Angels bring a no-nonsense product that is easily digestible and more pleasant after each listen.
On their MySpace page they write: “This unpretentious indie rock quartet has drawn comparisons to the Breeders, Throwing Muses, and Veruca Salt, but they’re not just an early 90s alt sister rock knock off. Listen closely and you’ll hear other influences like Loretta Lynn, the Pretenders, Ride and PJ Harvey. Really, LA has a sound all their own because the music is genuine and their personalities shine through.” And it is true there is more than just a knock-off band going on, but it would be foolish not to assume that Kim and Kelly Deal didn’t inspire these ladies to buy guitars. In no way is that a judgment on the sisters of Luke’s Angels—I know my brother and I wouldn’t have started a band if it weren’t for Nirvana, so give credit where credit is due.
“Undone” is a particularly bouncy tune that features the sisters in harmony, with a melodic underlining guitar lick. The opening track “Cityscape” is a nice intro track because it lays the foundation of what to expect throughout the rest of the collection. The tune “In June” has a bit of a Liz Phair vocal styling and a steady beat that propels the song. There is enough familiarity in the band’s sound that it welcomes you in, but there is enough uniqueness that allows the listener new rewards with each listen. There is a sound of genuine fun and passion throughout the disc, and that transfers into some quality tunes.
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