Skybombers

Australia's Skybombers don't sound like AC/DC, but they've got enough rock n' roll swagger and attitude to make the Aussie rock gods proud. Another common thread with the brothers Young and Co. is the band's penchant for straight-up, slamming riffs. Skybombers' Take Me To Town is cocked and loaded with dirty power chord driven fuzz and arena-ready choruses. "Always Complaining" has got the gusto to spark up any kegger with a big undeniable hook and an even ballsier riff to back it up. "It Goes Off" segues from a garage rock chord break to a Guns N' Roses-style buildup, and the band reaches heights of classic hard rock ecstasy. This is the kind of rock that's been missing in these days of eyeliner and emo, and the world needs more of it. It's dirty, raw, fun and ripe for anything from a party to cruising down the Sunset Strip. Even when Skybombers slow things down on the ballad-y "If You Want to Be The One," they still channel a raw edge from the vintage amp sounds and tones. The acoustic "My Morning's Gone" is another highlight with its visual lyrics and undeniable, little melody.

Granted, the latter half of the album leaves a little to be desired in the diversity department. The band masters the art of hook n' groove during the first half of the record, and they don't stray from it much thereafter. Still, the last track, "Reason to Live," has enough punch for a prizefight. Ultimately, Take Me Town fires off enough consistent rock and roll hits to make you put Back In Black back on the shelf for at least half of your next kegger.

—Rick Florino
05.29.08