STILL SINGLE

A space for thoughts on music and culture, as written by Doug Mosurock and a select handful of individuals. This is intended as a supplement to our regular feature Still Single, published on Dusted Magazine. Updates will run here more frequently, and may feature writing on music not covered in the column. Compact discs are still not accepted for review -- we have more than enough vinyl and the occasional cassette to worry about.

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Doug Mosurock
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May 27, 2010

Vapid – Practically Dead LP (Nominal/Deranged)

Debut long-player from Vancouver’s (Still Single’s official punk city) Vapid, two years after their only single “Do the Earthquake.” Two years between records in today’s punk market is an eternity. They’ve taken time to develop their songwriting chops from a basic snotty garage attack to something a little more substantial. Like many of their citymates Vapid is effective as capturing a moment of music past with fresh eyes. Practically Dead channels that early Lookout Records Riot Grrl sound, sounding like a singles-era Kathleen Hannah, fronting a more aggro Cub. It diverges with the Bikini Kill comparison with the songs remaining mostly poppy despite bursting with profanity and threats. It’s more unapologetic than political. Katie’s voice is a perfect blend of bubblegum and spite, with “Septic” opening with her snarling like a cat then moves into “Death of Youth” which is Ramones influenced girl pop perfection. Caroline’s walking bass lines pulls a lot of weight, which can make or break the chord heavy garage bands. Practically Dead would have benefited from a little editing, including the double speed retake of their single’s “Do The Earthquake” which loses all it’s swing. However hearing her howl “you fucking cunt-hole bitch” gives me the impression they could care less. 500 copies on clear for Records Nominal, 500 on Black/White for Deranged. (http://www.recordsnominal.com) (http://www.derangedrecords.com)
(Killedbyjeff)

1 year ago • 3 notes

still-single posted this