Though it might seem hacky to laud the Bronx with backhanded descriptors like "workhorse" and "reliable," there is a steely truthfulness to be found in them; as the band oscillates between Mariachi el and Bronx du jour, the L.A. five-piece have seldom tread the path less traveled, and V is no different.
In fact, this fifth album may perhaps be the most "Bronx" the Bronx have been since their Ferret Records debut. This time around, there's a bit more meat than potatoes, and while the Bronx have never been the kind of band to dabble in progressivisms, V is just that bit rawer and meaner than fans are used to. Make no mistake, though; the band still rely on the massive hooks they're known for, from the opening salvo of "Night Drop at the Glue Factory" to "Kingsize." The band's punk'n'roll won't make converts out of unbelievers, but for those already initiated, V proves the Bronx an undoubtedly vital institution.
(ATO Records)In fact, this fifth album may perhaps be the most "Bronx" the Bronx have been since their Ferret Records debut. This time around, there's a bit more meat than potatoes, and while the Bronx have never been the kind of band to dabble in progressivisms, V is just that bit rawer and meaner than fans are used to. Make no mistake, though; the band still rely on the massive hooks they're known for, from the opening salvo of "Night Drop at the Glue Factory" to "Kingsize." The band's punk'n'roll won't make converts out of unbelievers, but for those already initiated, V proves the Bronx an undoubtedly vital institution.