Throwing Stuff are yet another example of a band releasing material for download (free in this case) ahead of a physical release (due out sometime in May on YEAH! Records). This is a case where the ease of providing access to music is more of a positive than a negative. Throwing Stuff can be described as a trashy hardcore band with a sense of humour as well as anger in equal measure, and this nine-track album exemplifies that.
Some bands stand out for a number of reasons but it has to be said that Ben Small's vocals mark this record as something worth spending time listening to. He certainly sounds as if his throat is barely hanging on to the ability to sing, speak or do anything other than emit a hoarse bark, but he does it through the nine tracks. There is no denying that Small is a key reason for Throwing Stuff to stand out, but that's not to ignore the musicianship that provides him with the ability to do that. The band has a sloppy, yet controlled, delivery and the guitar of Kieran Kelly adds the right amount of bite whilst the rhythm section of Jamie Carruthers and Alun Matthews, bass and drums respectively, adds the thunder to keep it all together.
Opening with "Intro/TSFU" is a case of some meaty guitar riffs played at a fairly slow pace before it breaks into a few seconds of a manic thrash. This is followed by a cover of Joni Mitchell's "Big Yellow Taxi" where it is possible to catch the original melody, but you really have to listen hard to find it. It is not a bad effort though.
The thing that manages to grab and maintain listeners' attention throughout this release is the ability to mix the fast and slow bits as well as the distinctive vocals. On occasion, this combination is reminiscent of Nigel Blackwell of Half Man Half Biscuit on Throwing Shapes.
Attention-grabbing credit is also due for the song "Throwing Common Sense Out of the Window For Short Term Financial Gain." You'll also notice that the word âthrowing' is prevalent throughout this release, featured in four song titles in one form or another.
"Steve's Job," with its Dead Kennedys-like riff (slightly reminiscent of "California Uber Alles"), will be a favorite thanks to the final rallying call of:
âFuck your job
Fuck your boss
Fuck casual Fridays
Fuck the lot'
On the whole, this is a decent release which not only shows promise but also actually delivers in places, so check it out on Throwing Stuff's Bandcamp ahead of the physical release.