Review: Howler - America Give Up

Spotify

Mog

Howler - America Give Up (2012, Rough Trade)

By Justin

Chances are you’ve probably already heard America Give Up before. Not in the sense that you’ve heard this specific album, but more in a general sense. It’s another one of those rock albums with surf rock and garage rock influences. So we’re in the territory of about 85% of indie rock releases in the last 10 years. While Howler doesn’t do anything new on America Give Up, their enthusiasm and penchant for catchy songs makes their debut album a success.

The first thing I noticed when listening to Howler was their lead singer’s voice. Jordan Gatesmith has a voice that I would consider somewhat unique in that he really can’t sing. But when has that ever stopped a punk rock band before. It just feels like the resemblance to The Strokes is right in your face immediately. No matter your opinion on that band, it’s not good to have a feeling of re-hash right at the start of an album.

While Howler never really grow above this derivative distinction, they do enough pleasing things on America Give Up to make the album redeemable. Where they shine the most is on their fast paced songs. Songs like “This One’s Different”, “Wailing (Making Out)”, and “Back Of Your Neck” are by far the strongest showings on the album. The laid back almost obstinate lyrics of these songs works very well with the rest of the band’s style. I mean, if your’e gonna go for the whole Strokes thing, might as well go full Julian.

Most of the album doesn’t stray far from the typical surf rock lyricism. Mostly about teenage rebellion, surfing, and lust/love. The album lacks any real depth but the carefree style creates a good theme. As a debut album it doesn’t really take many chances, but does a good job of establishing a sound and style for the band, even if it does seem incredibly generic.

While there isn’t much new going on here, I had enough fun with America Give Up to say it is at least a successful debut album. If Howler is ever willing to move past this easy sound and really challenge themselves I believe that they have a pretty spectacular album in them. For now, this will do.

Album Score: 6.6/10

Songs I Starred On Spotify:

• Beach Sluts
• This One’s Different
• Wailing (Making Out)
• Told You Once
• Back Of Your Neck