Billy Raygun - Seasick CDep MQK 006
For as much as they summed up a dozen disparate
influences, the Ergs now find themselves influencing
a new generation of bands. Case in point: New
Hampshire’s Billy Raygun, whose debut
EP marks the first time I’ve actually
thought a different band really, really sounded
like the Ergs. The zippy riffage and descending
bassline that smack you in the face on “Machine”
really hammer home that comparison (think: “Introducing
Mr. Morrissey” or “Trouble In River
City”) but the thumping drums, boyish
vocals, melodic basslines, and outright catchiness
all mark Billy Raygun as a new pop-punk band
to watch for. All five songs here have a bright,
earnest energy, strong melodies, and the kind
of hooks that keep you coming back for repeated
listens. If they can manage to get in the van
and hit the road, we’ll all be singing
along before you know it.
- Jim Testa. www.jerseybeat.com