Review: Crash Street Kids - Chemical Dogs

Label: Hot City Records

Released: 2007

As their name implies, Crash Street Kids are big fans of Mott the Hoople. Even without that reference though, it would still be pretty clear. Their ability mix sugary pop with hard rock edge also raises the specter of early Sweet, but some of those guitar lines are unmistakable homages to Mick Ralphs. Throw in some of Thin Lizzy's grit, a healthy (though not compared to Queen themselves) dose of Queen's theatrics and a (surprise) rock star storyline and you have Chemical Dogs.

Does it sound derivative? In a sense, it does, but it also breathes some life into the original glam sound that often stands in the shadow of its inferior bastard child from the 80s. The vocals are down-to-earth, but lack power and range. The guitars are gritty and the rhythms straightforward. Sometimes, the Kids drift into a bit of AOR territory, but more often they're just enough over the top with grandiose string arrangements and flamboyant vaudeville piano parts. Sure, they aren't great technicians, but they play with heart and swagger...and it works! Crash Street Kids might not live up to their influences, but hearing them try is a good time nonetheless.

Ratings
Satriani: 5/10
Zappa: 4/10
Dylan: 6/10
Aretha: 7/10
Overall: 6/10

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