Album Review: The Kickback - Sorry All Over the Place
By Kim Reynolds, Contributor
[Julian; 2015]
Rating: 3.5/5
Key Tracks: “Sting’s Teacher Years,” “Nately,” “White Lodge”
The Kickback is an eclectic group of musicians, helmed by lead singer Billy Yost. The band has an interesting history as Yost assembled this current lineup through Craigslist ads after his move to Chicago. After this recruitment in 2012, the band received critical acclaim from both Rolling Stone and Chicago publications. The band also has produced over 100 episodes of a podcast DISASTER, detailing their experience with rock and roll life.
With all this success, this album was rather anticipated from fans and music critics. The band spent time changing arrangement as well as waiting for a label to release the album. Most impressively, the band had Jim Eno of Spoon record the album.
Now for the album itself...it’s rather hard to describe. Upon first listen, Sorry All Over the Place lacks ear-grabbing and inviting tracks. This is a shame because there is depth in this record. The band does a great job of being expansive within the realm of indie rock. All on this album, there are spacey grooves, pop punk sounds, clean and neat keys, and even a horn feature on “Nately.” This album falls flat sonically because it is meant for vinyl. This sound can fill the background, reminiscent of ‘60s rock sounds, but can also be a topic of discussion with a sharp ear.
If you are looking for some casual, pop punk/rock music, dig deep into The Kickback and you may find something worthwhile. Hear them for yourself here in Athens on Thursday, October 22nd!
