Remember that awesome Trust EP by The Generationals that was released at the end of 2010 that got all of us here at KCRW overjoyed and in dire craving for a full-length fix? The title song was even featured in KCRW's Today's Top Tune. Yes, it was that good…
Well, our smoke signals have not been in vain, as the New Orleans duo are back in the game with their sophomore album, Actor-Caster via Park The Van Records. Here, they continue in the spirit of the 50's — although this time around they add a little more punch to it. It seems the dynamic duo has decided to bare all, rock out, and have themselves a dance party! At least half the time.
The album starts off with a definite attention-grabbing banger, "Ten-Twenty-Ten." It's a pulsating ride that doesn't ease up until the last note. If the intention was to reel you in, well then, they win. And it doesn't stop there. Continuing with “I Promise,” they seize the energy and it's off to a brilliant joyride. The soft come-down arrives in the form of "Yours Forever," the third track. It's a beauty, but do make sure you are feeling great about that last break-up before you indulge, because this might not be the one to play on repeat.
"You Say It Too" and "Goose & Gander" will make even the most dance-challenged get in line. The grooves are infectious and they are all definite party starters. The second half of the record seems to find a perfect mid-tempo balance with tracks like "Dirty Mister Dirty," "Black and White" and "Greenleaf" that are just plain irresistible.
Maybe because I'm a sucker for a good dance track, or maybe because the lyrics shoot straight for the heart, "I Promise" really does it for me. It's such a feel-good song, with the most contagious hook and a great pounding energy to boot. What more could you possibly want? Oh I know, it's a little on the short side. Extended KCRW remix, anyone?
-- Valida, KCRW Music Host
Actor-Caster will be available to stream on demand from March 21 through April 19, 2011. The album will be released on March 29, 2011.
Artists' website: http://generationals.com/
Track listing
1. Ten-Twenty-Ten
2. I Promise
3. Yours Forever
4. You Say It Too
5. Goose & Gander
6. Dirty Mister Dirty
7. Black and White
8. Tell Me Now
9. Greenleaf
10. Please Be It