The Radio EP
American Pinup
Altercation Records, 2015
American Pinup self-identify as a pop-punk band and all that does is sell them short. With this 4 song EP, they manage to navigate through four distinctly different numbers. From roaring, over-sized choruses to dramatic whispers ,American Pinup pull of a clever balancing act on this musical tight-rope.
“The Radio” is a funky shuffle pushed along by a some inventive drumming and the use of space. This is a different color palate than most punks would choose to paint with. “Committed” swells with big, hooky “Whoa-ohs” which are easy to get attached to.
Full of sweet melodies and crackling guitars, this is crunch-pop at it’s finest. It would be easy to focus on Lauren West darkly evocative voice, but this band loves to throw in subtle touches which help make the songs stand apart.