Album Review: 61/49 – The Romantics

Revivals can often times be inspirational, and are seemingly almost inevitable, especially where music is concerned. Whenever a particular style causes a particularly big fuss within its “day,” it’s almost certain that style will come ambling back into the picture somewhere down the road. To be adored again, and to, most importantly, save the day from whatever in its line of expertise is sullying things. And few things have made as big a fuss as good ol’ Detroit rock ‘n’ roll. Enter The Romantics. Playing heroes (along with an ever-steady flow of other excellent Detroit bands) against the slobbering, heinous ogre that is “popular” music, and their timing is perfect.

61 / 49 is The Romantic’s weapon of choice, and it’s ultra – effective and plenty sharp. Their first proper release in close to twenty years, this record proves itself as one of the band’s finest; completing its order of business in just 36 engaging minutes of pure and wonderfully sleazy Detroit rock.

This incarnation of Detroit home-brew, The Romantics, including Coz Canler and Mike Skill on guitars, Clem Burke at the drums, and as always, driven by the unmistakable crooning of Wally Palmar, is definitely all about efficiency. Things get started right away with the very Kinks-ish first track, “Devil in Me.” The drums are sure and confident, the guitar hooks catchy as ever, and the whole deal will have you moving in spite of yourself. On from there, songs like “61 / 49″ and “When the Angels (Hear Me Calling)” keep the pace nicely. “New Kinda Pain” is probably the most memorable track on the album – an infectiously energetic track with every Romantic playing his own part too perfectly to pick a favorite.

After thoroughly cleaning house, the crew only slows down a bit for dreamy ending numbers like “Paint the Sky” and “Still We Remain.” These offerings are refreshingly pretty, but still potent enough to keep things serious and leaves opponents shaking in their trendy, uncomfortable shoes.

When all is said and done, it is undeniably evident The Romantics are here to stay, and are still our reliable champions of powerful, pure rock ‘n’ roll. – Amanda Van Keuren