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Duane Peters' New Rock 'n Roll Outfit

Well, we are certainly in the punk and rock 'n roll realms here people. The name of the band and the CD don't quite bring this point across though - it sounds more like a bad metal band. Formed in 2000 by Duane Peters, the vocalist for the U.S. Bombs. Their influences are quite obvious, and this album is stacked full not only of hobnail-boots-ridden punk, but some fairly solid rock 'n roll in a similar vein to the New York Dolls. The lead singers on the CD change between both Duane Peters and Corey Parks, the really hot bassist from Nashville Pussy, which gives a nice variety to the vocals. After reading around Mr Peter's background, I'm surprised at how many bands and albums this man has been involved with and whether or not this particular outing will break any barriers.

'Mad Society' sets the tone for the album quite well with big booming guitars that remind me of the New York Dolls. 'Jorge' hits you with some more big riffs and a solid vocal hook on the chorus from Parks.

'You Rot Me' has a certain 'London Calling' sound to it. It certainly has a flavour similar to The Clash. 'Die for Me' almost sounds a little country in places. Its fairly slow and quiet. It doesn't really go anywhere for quite a while, and seems to drag on a little too much. 'Ain't It A Shame' features both the vocals of Duane and Corey. Together, it sounds right, and delivers a bit more body to a good rock song.

'47 Street' ups the pace, with it's speedy, almost skater rock.'On My Mind' features Corey on vocals, beginning with a quiet section reminiscent of the Distillers. She certainly has the throaty, smokey edge to her voice.

Overall, the album is basic, but it does retain it's edge. I don't think I'll listen to it again in a hurry, though serious punks and fans of Mr Peters will no doubt be happy with this album. It isn't totally a punk album in the Sid Vicious style of the genre with Peters sounding more like Shane MacGowan. Despite the punk influences, this record shows Peters in more of a rock setting. The sound does flow well from each track to track. The production has an "Old-school" style quality to it, with some of the vocals and instruments sounding "far-away" and in the background. Duane is not the best singer, nor are the lyrics particularly catchy, but they do bring over a good punk, L.A. Circa 1980s sound.