Here Are the Sonics
Here Are the Sonics makes its point directly. Drums hit hard, guitars sound dirty, and Gerry Roslie sings as though an ordinary voice simply would not be enough. Recognisable rock and roll and rhythm and blues provide the foundation. The performances give those forms a tension reaching well beyond a friendly dance record.
The Witch opens with a persistent guitar figure. Rhythm maintains the pressure and the singing makes its threat almost cheerful. That strange combination of simple melodies and wild delivery defines much of the album. Songs remain easy to follow while the band constantly seem to push against the limits of their sound.
Psycho makes guitar and saxophone fight for the same space. Roslie's cries make everything even less settled. Strychnine also uses piano to drive its pace. The instruments do not sit neatly apart, but their collective force gives the songs an immediately recognisable character. The excitement comes from their collision as much as from any individual performance.
The covers fit comfortably among the original material. Do You Love Me preserves its catchy pop side even when the band play hard through it. Have Love Will Travel gives melody enough room to become more than another burst of noise. The Sonics take familiar songs seriously enough to give them convincing performances of their own.
The restricted sound and constant vocal attack can become tiring if subtlety is your priority. Many songs also use familiar forms. Their appeal lies in the conviction of the playing. Even without bringing reputation or later influence into the discussion, this remains strong music. Here Are the Sonics has enough melody to stay accessible and enough aggression to keep demanding attention.
