PRE – “Hope Freaks” – [Skin Graft Records]

How can I not mention Melt-Banana? Break-neck songs exhorted
on by bruise-legs jumping bean teeny scream dream vocals.
Akiko Matsuura is the focal vocal point, but PRE delivers
ridlin-riddled rhythms courtesy of Rick Bennett with Lightning
Bolt sticks. Bennett’s snare is often as frequent and high in
the mix as Akiko (who goes by Exceedingly Good Keex for what
it’s worth) Does PRE still have two bassists? Can’t even
tell here…and that might be a compliment. John Webb on
guitar eschews the slippery effects treachery of Agata from
Melt-Banana in favor of tight frenetic punchiness. Locks into
some OCD moments, like on the tail end of the title track.
Webb has some cool ringing slide on “Why Be Wives.” Too often
Webb riffs along with Matsuura’s shouting, which rather than
making the vocals seem more powerful, just makes the songs
feel more obvious. Songs do come in a flurry, with the longest
clocking in at 2:48. Short and shout. Albini on knobs.
3W: Mined your head.

-Thurston Hunger