Sonic Negroes
Honky Bastard Blues
By Lynda
(SugarBuzz Atlanta)
SugarBuzz Magazine
Hailing from what seems to be the real/scuzz rock capitol of the world (Sweden), is yet another toss up stoner band called Sonic Negroes.
Their latest release delivers 15 tracks of honest to goodness trash rock straight to the brain, and wakens the spirit.
Filled with heavy bass, over mic’d guitars, handclaps, accentuating drums, perfect harmonies, and a rock & roll-worn voice to lead it all off, “Honky Bastard Blues” is an easy target of fans of The Nomads, The Hellacopters, and the Supersuckers. However, one of the unexpected and yet sophisticated additions to the sound is an intermittent bluesy piano.
At times I forget I’m not listening to a stoner Southern rock band with punk roots.
Hell Man (singer) occasionally sounds like Gary Finneran (Ex-Idols), and the band can harness the power of The Wildhearts at times. It’s rather impressive to hear such a collection of rock greats, despite how I’m sure it’s not an actual objective… Afterall, what band wants to hear “you sound like…” when you want to be your own band. It’s true. The Sonic Negroes are not unique perse, but the composition of their sound is great unintentional homage to some amazing, yet under appreciated bands. I can see how in 5 years time, Sonic Negroes will be a “house hold name” to rockers who are asked “who are some of your favourites?”
“Kicked Around” is my pick of the CD because it’s just so damn catchy. The chorus is repeated the exact number of times to make you remember it, but not annoy you with it.
Overall, “Honky Bastard Blues” (It’s Not About Music Records) doesn’t split the skull, but instead subconsciously creeps into your head and sticks.
Check the band out at www.sonicnegroes.com or myspace.com/sonicnegroes