Not exactly what most people think of when I mention Japanese punk in the early '90s but no less addictive. CIGARETTEMAN were shamelessly influenced by West Coast melodic punk (JAWBREAKER, CRINGER), and deliver their songs with hopelessly endearing female lead vocals and just enough crunch in the guitars to keep them from sounding too pretty. After this '94 demo came two EPs and splits with DISCOUNT and JOHN COUGAR CONCENTRATION CAMP (the former is brilliant, while their tracks on the latter are not quite as good - but still very good), and the band progressed into a masterful interpretation of the kind of punk that makes you lament instead of fight, makes you feel strong inside instead of feeling hopeless. You can be shortsighted and turn people off by calling them pop punk if you like, but that would be your loss.
Oh yeah, the Prince cover is perhaps expendable, but it's still kinda cute...
4 comments:
No link?
Link.
This was such a pleasant treat. I don't know why Cigaretteman records are so hard to get (probably because they're so melodically good as is this demo). I would sell my soul for all their demos if any devils are reading. heh Awesome post!!
Thank you for liberating this.
Post a Comment