New Bloods: The Secret Life

Label: Kill Rock Stars

The New Bloods’ Secret Life is one of the most impressive debuts I’ve heard this year. This all-grrrl trio from Portland boasts an unusual arrangement: violin, bass and drums (with all three sharing lead vocals), but what a wallop they pack. The basslines are sharp and melodic, while the violin gives the album a rough, frenzied edge. Despite the small lineup, the band brings a variety of sounds to the table, from jagged punk to alt-country to girl-group a cappella. The New Bloods have drawn comparisons to the likes of Sleater-Kinney and ESG, but there are only surface similarities to those groups. To my mind, the band captures the wonderful DIY spirit of early ‘80s postpunk, especially the Raincoats and early Mekons. If I have one complaint about The Secret Life, it’s that it’s too short, not even reaching 25 minutes in length. (Of course, the virtue in this approach is that there’s no filler.) It’s a short ride, yes, but what a ride it is, and if you like your albums tight and compact, you’ll find plenty to feast on in this splendid little record. (James)