The Hard-Ons - I Like You A Lot Getting Older

Now celebrating their 40th Anniversary. The Hard-Ons have earned the right to do whatever they want, not that they have ever needed or wanted your permission. They may less Punk and more Guitar Pop Rock these days, but they were always great at both.

That's not to say that they have lost their noisy bite. One listen to These Days Are Long proves that. Yet that is counterbalanced by the Power Pop of Because You're Mine. The pace of Happy Accidents is mighty fine Indie Rock, almost AOR.

Operation Lightning is incredibly in your face, but Getting Older is part New Wave, part 70s Pop Rock with Thin Lizzy Type Riffing. However, the one minute of Doesn't Look Like Me At All is aggressive Garage Punk of the highest order. 

Ride To The Station is essentially Summer Pop, but interspersed with chaotic interludes. Incredibly Pop, but like a lot of the band's songs, different directions come in part way through songs. They start as one thing and change into something else before reverting back.

I Like You A Lot reminds me a lot of a band like Vanilla, great melodic Pop Rock. But the best is saved until last. Pushover is magnificent. For a band that has songs that usually come in `t under 3 minutes, it is a surprise to hear something that is over 6.

Pushover shows an even different side to the band, it is epic.with an extended hypnotic fade. This album will suit old and new fans alike. There is enough of the old slightly angry vibe, but also plenty that shows how melodic and catchy that the Oz quartet can be. Wonderful!

 

You can listen to and buy the album here. It is available on Vinyl, CD and as a download.

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