Portland – Often in rock music, the adage “less is more” holds true. Range Anxiety, the new album from Melbourne-based Twerps (out this week on Merge Records in the U.S.), is a prime example of how accurate that statement is. With two guitars, bass, drums, and vocals shared by every member, the four-piece act has crafted a straightforward and immensely entertaining record that fans of no-frills modern garage and alternative rock cannot afford to miss.
A large portion of the appeal of Range Anxiety comes from the raw quality of the music. The guitar leads may not be complex in comparison to other bands, and the singing is not perfect, but Twerps does not need to make their songs overly complicated.
The songs work well with a few basic parts. There is no need to add layer upon layer of other instruments and sound effects, or to make sure that every note and chord is hit perfectly. These little imperfections give Range Anxiety an honest quality, a decision that has paid off immensely well.
Taking a basic approach to their music allows the pop sensibilities of Twerps to shine. Songs such as “I Don’t Mind” and “Back To You” are full of melodic hooks, both in the vocals and the instrumentals. The lyrics come across as heartfelt, as well as easy for a live crowd to sing along with.
In fact, with the potential for crowd participation and the energy present even in the more down-tempo songs, nearly every track could have a place in the band’s set list at a concert. This underlying confidence allows Twerps to demand the full attention of listeners with their vigor and catchiness. One can hear how much fun the four musicians were having while recording the album, and they clearly want their audiences to have just as much fun listening to them play.
At just over 40 minutes in length (and only two songs that pass the five minute mark), Range Anxiety is a fairly quick listen. Each track is direct and to the point, and keeps the record moving along at a brisk pace from start to finish.
Lesser bands attempting an album such as this may encounter the pitfall of everything sounding exactly the same, every track blending together so that one song is almost indistinguishable from the other. Twerps rises to this challenge and overcomes it easily.
One way they accomplish this task is with the changes in tempo. While almost every track is relatively short, not every single one is played at a fast speed. The record is balanced well: for every two or three songs with a quick beat, there is one with a slightly mellower feel.
Combined with small changes, such as a different lead vocalist or different guitar tone, allows Range Anxiety to never have a dull moment on any track, each song leading into the other while remaining distinct and engaging to the listener.
Those looking for more experimental or grandiose styles of music may not take to the sound of Twerps. For those needing a reminder or affirmation of the power of back-to-basics rock should give Range Anxiety a listen.
You can connect with Twerps through Facebook and Twitter. Purchase Range Anxiety here, and check out the band on one of their North American tour dates in March and April.
Jack Butcher
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