Review: Caesars - Strawberry Weed

Label: Astralwerks

Released: August 19, 2008

From the opening seconds of Strawberry Weed, Caesars make it clear that they're not afraid to make noise. Committed to the mod tradition of the Who, they are loud, abrasive and willing to run wild, yet they never lose their raw pop sense. They tap into that point in rock history when bands realized they should play really loud before the equipment was ready for it. The music here is loud, but in anything other than a hard rock way.

Caesars beat bubblegum pop over the head with the title track and "Boo Boo Go Goo." They hit up garagey R&B on "Turn It Off" and go for the psych out on "Crystal." Even the brit pop leanings of the album's last few tracks ride on straightforward rhythms and rough-hewn energy.

Strawberry Weed embodies rock n roll's perfection of imperfection. If you have any wildness in your heart, this will appeal to you. It isn't about revolution or even rebellion, just about a desire to break out and be free.

Ratings
Satriani: 6/10
Zappa: 6/10
Dylan: 7/10
Aretha: 8/10
Overall: 7/10

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