Summer of Nosebleeds
Atlanta, Georgia based, provocatively named punk band The Coathangers are celebrating a decade as a group with the release of Nosebleed Weekend, their most evolved, mature record to date. But just because the trio has grown up since their self titled debut in 2007, they are no less catchy or charming. In fact, this newest album should be wooing plenty of new fans thanks to its gentler moments and hazy vibes reminiscent of the lo-fi shoegazey post-punk trend so popular these days. They’ve still got plenty of the attitude that made the rest of us fall in love with them over the past 10 years.
Nosebleed Weekend opens with “Perfume,” a single released shortly before the album’s street date, which serves as an immediate example of how the trio has embraced a bit more of a laid back sound to at least some of their songs. But old fans of the band need not fret, the Coathangers still have their trademark, snotty punk rock attitude. Songs like “Squeeki Tiki,” which features the musical stylings of a squeaky dog toy, and the early single “Watch Your Back” sound like they could have been ripped straight from Larceny & Old Lace and will have you on your feet and dancing in no time. Title track “Nosebleed Weekend” is another highlight on the album, perfect for a lazy summer day or when you’re getting ready to go to a party (at least the kind of party seen in the bloody music video recently released for the song), and blends the voices of all three Coathangers (Rusty, Minnie, and Crook Kid), showing what a perfect team they are together. There are no low points on this record, and every type of music fan will find something to get their toes tapping or their noses bleeding.
The Coathangers are the toughest, coolest folks in punk right now, it’s been apparent since day one but Nosebleed Weekend has solidified that beyond any shadow of a doubt. It may only be April, but it wouldn’t be a reach to assume that this album will find itself on plenty of year end lists. Anyone who likes punk, female angst, dog toys and lots of sass has a reason to seek out this record and it is guaranteed to win your heart. This is the future of punk and everyone should be sitting down and taking notes.
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