The three tracks in this review are recent offerings from The 3148s, a rock outfit with both heart and raw energy. The first track, “Saratoga Ave”, opens with gentle drumming and strummed electric guitar chords; sizzling with distortion, and yet oozing with a cleanness that is oddly calming and therapeutic. When the vocals kick in with that Southern twang, it’s clear that this is a classic country blues band that promises soulful, meaningful lyrics with plenty of character and, at the same time, the kind of traditional rock energy that is lacking from so many polished rock bands of the current day. There’s a catchy vocal hook in the chorus and a scorching guitar solo towards the end of the track; it brings to mind bands of the ‘90s, such as Oasis and Blur. Though it’s an American band, something about the guitar tone and energy reminds me of those electrifying Britpop groups.
“Guillotine” is an absolute banger. There’s no other way to put it. That dark, threatening outro feels like the opening moments of a wild western showdown, and the way that buzzing guitar bursts into the mix is just utterly brilliant. Combine that with the pumping drum beat, and you’ve got yourself a powerful intro. But wait, there’s more — along comes the biggest surprise of the track, which is the spoken verses, bordering on rapping, telling a tale of the bourgeoisie and hard times. The chorus is a punk anthem, and there’s another absolutely scorching electric guitar solo at the end of the track. Two for two; these are brilliant tracks.
“Picture of You” is a heartfelt tale. “I remember that girl / I remember that longing hunger.” A story as old as time. Boy longs for girl. And the instrumental backing to these touching lyrics is wonderfully crafted too; there’s a jubilant vibe to the springy electric guitar chords and piano plinking. As the song progresses, the guitar becomes crunchier, and the vocals screech out the tuneful melody with some real gusto — I’m always a fan of a good build in a song. And this rounds off three fantastic tracks from The 3148s. Definitely worth a listen.
Stream Saratoga Ave
Stream Guillotine
Stream Picture of You
