I’m never super excited about buzz bands. Often, they burn brightly at first but then tend to fade just as quickly. I realize that this presumption could take away from discovering terrific bands. However, I am willing to take that risk.
The Vaccines were a buzz band, thanks in part to UK’s great hype machine, NME. This was accompanied with an appearance on Jools Holland. The two most high-profile members of the group are Justin Young (aka Jay Jay Pistolet) and Freddie Cowan (younger brother of Tom from The Horrors).
Musically, The Vaccines are too much fun. It’s hard to resist their energy – just take one listen to Wreckin’ Bar. It’s also an album that grows in greatness. Repeated listens only leads to a better appreciation for this newly formed unit. Because of their retro-sensibilities, I feel there is a certain likability to the band. Their sound is oddly familiar and, in turn, incredibly catchy.
