Jam’s Jams
Gym Class Heroes
“As Cruel As School Children”
The boys of Gym Class are back with their new release, “As Cruel as School Children.” With almost haunting melodies in “It’s OK, But Just This Once” against the addictive bass lines and choruses in “The Queen and I” and “7 Weeks,” GCH delivers a hip-hop album that pop-punk kids can appreciate.
Gym Class Heroes
“As Cruel As School Children”
The boys of Gym Class are back with their new release, “As Cruel as School Children.” With almost haunting melodies in “It’s OK, But Just This Once” against the addictive bass lines and choruses in “The Queen and I” and “7 Weeks,” GCH delivers a hip-hop album that pop-punk kids can appreciate. As far as real hip-hop devotees are concerned, the only decent tracks are “Shoot Down The Stars” and “New Friend Request.” They have replaced their primarily instrument-driven music with samples. Lead Rapper Travis McCoy’s lyrics still are very good but nothing special in the world of conscious hip hop.
Recommended if you like: N.E.R.D, Fall Out Boy, Motion City Soundtrack.
The Futureheads
“News and Tributes”
“News and Tributes” is the remarkable follow-up to The Futureheads’ 2004 self-titled debut.
The track “Return of the Berserker,” better than anything heard on the first album, proves The Futureheads have the variety other bands can’t cohesively keep together. “Skip To The End” serves as the most perfect catchy rock tune released this year. If you miss the voice of Joe Strummer and love danceable rock, then you will truly enjoy “News and Tributes.”
Recommended if you like: The Clash, Arcade Fire, Franz Ferdinand.
