Grand Theft Audio is indeed a fitting name as this band borrows heavily from other artists, whether it be through song structures, riffs or an eclectic bunch of samples. Using a watered down strain of new metal angst similar to Methods Of Mayhem and sneering British vocals akin to Pitchshifter, the pop sensibilities and hooky choruses of acts like Jesus Jones and EMF and the party friendly electronic beats and programming of The Crystal Method, they establish a just want to have fun meets punk rock attitude that is rigid and bombastic, yet catchy with a modern flavor.
The groups British accents are quite distinguishable as band frontman Jay makes the rounds with a scornful, almost mocking tone that comes complete with backup support from both guitarist Chris and drummer Rich. The end result winds up being heavy on melody, but its odd contrast can leave it sounding somewhat like an edgier version of a bubble gum pop boy band through a few of the first tracks. There is however a bit more to their routine as they do at times manage to switch it up and try on a more calm and sedated croon, slowly speaking out verses with a somewhat gritty overtone sounding something like the Fun Lovin' Criminals gone rotten. Guitars are fairly agitated and jump out at the listener for attention, but its hard to not feel as though they get lost in the mix a bit when there's so much programming and electronic noise going on in the background. The bass and drums also suffer the same fate, although they do seem to be a bit more prevalent in the swirling storm of energizing noise.
The band are definitely ambitious with their craft, throwing in raps from guest mc's, samples from acts like the Beastie Boys and Dr. Dre and even going as far as reworking a classic AC/DC riff on "Rock The House", making it sound like a cross between 2 Unlimited and Methods Of Mayhem. Through it all though, its hard not to feel as though they are doing such things just to try and reach as many audiences as possible, rather than truly feel it. Sure its a fun record that would go great at a party or perhaps during intermissions at a sports game or something and the programming is actually fairly skilled, but as a whole it just feels a bit contrived and overdone. Still, its records like this that usually manage to come out of nowhere and score a hit or two and the music is definitely modern and hooky enough to warrant such a feat, even if the band could be blamed for seemingly writing songs just for that very purpose.
(2.5 / 5)
wookubus