ROCKZONE.COM: CD Reviews: Bad Astronaut

Bad Astronaut
Acrophobe
by Samuel Barker
February 6, 2001

File Under: pop rock

rating: C-

tracks

1. Greg's Estate
2. Anecdote
3. Grey Suits
4. Quiet
5. 500 Miles
6. Needle In The Hay
7. Only Good For A...
8. Deformed
9. Logan's Run
10. Unlucky Stuntman

related links

Bad Astronaut

Honest Don's Records

Fat Wreck Chords

Bad Astronaut is a side project of sorts for Lagwagon lead man, Joey Cape. The band contains former members of Lagwagon and other CA-area bands. First off, Bad Astronaut is a pop band. Not the weak ass shit you hear today, but a real pop band. Some may call them pop-punk, but you can hear a strong touch of 80's pop in their music. Some of the songs are rather hard(for pop that is.) but for the most part Bad Astonaut comes at you with a great songs and upbeat music.

The album begins with "Greg's Estate". This song could be considered similar to Lagwagon, but it's got a poppier edge in my eye. It's got a very fun sound with some great vocals. The keyboards are a nice touch to this song and many others. "Anecdote" follows the same road as "Greg's Estate" with the pop sound and great usage of piano. The songs on this CD are very well written. "Grey Suits" has a definite 80's pop sound. The organ totally makes the song.

The album even features a cover of Elliot Smith's "Needle In The Hay". This pick for a cover gives you a strong idea of what to expect from the band. The band sends props out to bands such as Jawbreaker, Iron Maiden, Foo Fighters, and Elliot Smith who they admit to "directly or indirectly" ripping off. "Deformed" has some great piano work, strong vocals, and a wonderfully relaxed sound. It's a really great track. "Unlucky Stuntman" is the last song, and one of the best. It's 100% pure pop rock. It's got a great older sound and totally grabs you with it's sound.

Acrophobe is a wonderful album that I strongly suggest giving a listen to. It's very poppy and fun. It's available from Honest Don's for a song, so that's even more reason to pick up this album and give it a listen. You'll be hard pressed to find something with this sound that is as well played or as well written. Bad Astronaut is set to tour soon, so be sure not to miss them when they hit your town.

Samuel Barker is Senior Editor. Contact him at suma@rockzone.com.

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