The fresh new EP, titled “Too Rare!” by Charles Warren Orchestra, is a testament to their unapologetic approach to rock and roll. The band’s appreciation for music is clear throughout their work, with an encyclopedic knowledge of the genre that is paired with the rough-edged influence of Budweiser.
The EP features a collection of tracks that sail through the rapids of rock and roll with the questionable command of a deranged paddle guide. From “A Brief History of Agony” to “13th Floor” and “Everything’s Alright,” the songs are built around driving rhythms, catchy choruses, and snarling guitar riffs that will get your blood pumping and your head banging. The selection of songs paints a comprehensive picture of the band’s artistic vision. Take for example The Stripes, and The Black Keys, and then merge them together while adding a little extra Foo Fighters texture on top. The result is what you’d call ‘Too Rare’ to be true for an indie act.
Despite the band’s insistence on staying true to their garage rock roots, the mix on “Too Rare!” is surprisingly clean and polished. The guitars cut through the mix with a crisp punchiness, the drums sound huge and thunderous, and the vocals sit perfectly in the pocket without getting lost in the mix. Additionally, the unorthodox yet clean sound design is reminiscent of tape recorders with warm tube saturations.
A throwback to rock and roll roots with Charles Warren Orchestra
The EP is relatively short, clocking in at just over 14 minutes, but every second of it is filled with raw energy and an irreverent sense of humour. The album art, featuring a cow at a dinner table eagerly awaiting a serving of rare steak (apprehensive about becoming one itself), perfectly captures the band’s playful and rebellious spirit.
“Too Rare!” would be a great fit for a comedy movie like “Dumb and Dumber” or an animation movie like the “Shrek” franchise. The songs capture the youthful energy and carefree attitude that are a hallmark of the genre. The diverse energy spectrum and narratives of the record make it a good fit for a wide array of adventure or romance movies as well depending on the context. Furthermore, the unorthodox recording process only adds to the EP’s charm with a stereo field studded with gnarly guitar riffs, tight drum and bass grooves, and sheer rock and roll spirit. The classics!
“Too Rare!” is a fun and energetic EP that showcases Charles Warren Orchestra’s talent for crafting catchy, high-energy rock and roll that will get your blood pumping and your feet tapping. It’s a must-listen for fans of the genre and anyone who loves good old-fashioned no-nonsense music. In conclusion, Charles Warren Orchestra is a high-octane act that’s gearing up to turn a few heads in the NYC indie-rock scene.
