The Datsuns - The Datsuns

If you asked the Datsuns what was going to be the next big thing in the rock scene the answer would undeniably be "guitars." This debut stateside release from V2 Records is chalk full of big guitar riffs, swaggering solos, and a good amount of screeching interludes. This is the kind of music that incites throngs of people to throw their devil signs in the air, bang their sweaty long hair to the rythmn, and throw themselves back when the full frontal assault of the solo kicks in. It is absolutely all about the guitars. The Datsuns are the AC/DC of the 2000's generation, minus the incessant and non-so-subtle ridiculous sexual references. Bon Scott would be proud of Dolf Datsuns sometimes forced, sometimes squealing vocals. Aside from the occasional cowbell, the drums provide nothing but an appropriate backdrop for the guitar riff. The same could be said of the bass, it's an excellent compliment to the guitars. Did I mention that The Datsuns are all about the guitar? "What Would I Know" sounds dead up like a classic rock favorite from 25 years ago with just the hint of new school production values and punk rock tinged vocals. Oh, and the dueling guitar parts during the bridge are sure to get anyone to throw their beer back in celebration of the rock. You'd think that an onslaught of rock (see "MF From Hell", "Harmonic Generator", "Lady", "Sittin' Pretty") would falter for a song called "In Love" but you'd be wrong. The chorus gets a little more sing along, but it's still sweaty riff rock. It's nice to see that guitars are becoming more and more prevelant over turntables and samples but much like any strict genre style album it can tend to really wear on you if you aren't completely into it (which is quite possible, trust me). For those of you who break out your Back in Black record and wish there was someone else out there who had the rock sneer to compete with that sound, The Datsuns are your brand. The players are tight, the songs are exactly what they should be - these guys weren't trying for a certain sound, this is in their blood. These guys should hook up with the Hellacopters and tour the hell out of the world playing bars where men are men, drink beer by the pitcher (not the glass), and remind the world that guitar rock can still be done. [www.thedatsuns.com]