Rock Kills Kid - Are You Nervous?

Other than having a great band name, Rock Kills Kid, has a solid sound. Although the band formed in the late '90s, the group's sound has a marked mid-'80s sound, a-la early U2, or maybe Echo and the Bunnymen. The band’s debut, an eponymous EP, was released in 2001 through Fearless Records, yet, without a tour to support the album, the band remained in relative obscurity. A few years and a little homelessness later, singer Jeff Tucker had written over 150 songs. Recruiting a new lineup, and signing to Reprise records, the band was finally able to drop its first full-length record. Are You Nervous? kicks off with a White Stripes feel, as prominent bass gives way to drums and funky rhythm guitar, finally bringing in a post-punk inspired chorus. Easily mistaken for an '80s rock band, Rock Kills Kid would be right at home playing a show with Devo or The Cars. Jeff Tucker’s vocals on the title track, have a definite early U2 feel, while keeping in line with bands like Interpol. Introspective, often isolated, and emotional, this album is a keeper. [www.rockkillskid.com]