For those that were around in the 90’s as far as music is concerned, L7 were one of those bands that got caught up in the grunge wave led by the likes of Nirvana, Soundgarden and more. But L7 stood their own ground and brought a more melodic and punkier side that while certainly punk was an influence on all those bands, was brought more to the front in the way of catchy, riff driven music. Whether it was pop punk, alternative rock or simply danceable hooks, L7 were unmistakable in their own unique sound and to this day resonates to those that were brought up in guitar driven rock. 20 years after their last album “Slap-Happy” was released, the band return with new material in the way of “Scatter The Rats” which sees that trademark sound come back in which many of us remember them for.
If you are going to make a somewhat comeback album, especially two decades later, then easing into things is probably the way to go and that’s exactly what L7 do with opening track “Burn Baby“, a mid-tempo rocker with that heavily distorted guitar sound that immediately brings a sense of familiarity, nostalgia and excitement all at the same time. With that being said, L7 aren’t here to experiment and fuck around with their core sound too much and it’s this opener that really sets the tone for the rest of the album.
“Fighting The Crave” brings a bit of 80’s glam pop punk to the table, a catchy and bouncy track that is sure to get a few heads boppin’. The heavier stuff comes in the form of “Proto Prototype“, grungy, gritty but simple and effective. It encapsulates a lot of what L7 do best and while it’s not going to have the impact of such gems as “Pretend We’re Dead”, it’s still got the heart and soul of L7.
“Stadium West” is the first track that appears to somewhat stray away from the trademarks a little but there’s an unmistakable hook here as well as some classic rock licks that hold this solid number together well. Unsurprisngly released as a single, it may very well be one of the strongest songs on here yet.
Continuing on that, “Murky Water Cafe” has a real swampy swagger about it that again brings in a little variety. Led by Suzi Gardner on the vocals, it’s another standout track that oozes a certain vibe and atmosphere without even trying. Fast forwarding a bit while we’re on that subject, “Holding Pattern” is similar in idea but on a slightly more mellower front with a casualness that seems effortless. If one were to pick another highlight, this would be it.
Back to the more grungy stuff, “Ouija Board Lies” brings chugging riffs in this undeniably 90’s rocker while “Garbage Truck” sits more in old school punk Girlschool style. Coming to a close is the dancey “Uppin’ The Ice” where a powerful drum beat leads the way in this melodic rocker, “Cool About Easy” is full of more swagger and fuzzy guitar tones but the best could very well have been saved for last with the title track. It’s another huge swaggerry number, slower tempo but brilliant grooves and that unmistakable guitar licks mixed with the catchy title track chorus line that end this album on a high.
I think saying this could be the best L7 album might be a bit of a reach but there’s no denying the band have lost none of the power or the ability to make catchy, memorable rock that envokes an enthusiasm for this kind of music. Welcome back L7.
8/10
TRACKLIST
Burn Baby
Fighting The Crave
Proto Prototype
Stadium West
Murky Water Cafe
Ouija Board Lies
Garbage Truck
Holding Pattern
Uppin’ The Ice
Cool About Easy
Scatter The Rats
