Das
4 stars
I was introduced to Das Llamas‘ music when I caught them live on Wednesday, June 20 at Safari Sam’s in Hollywood. They rocked live, and I picked up their latest disc, World War. It’s their first full-length album. Das Llamas’ unique style is captured perfectly on the record. The Seattle-based band mostly has post-punk roots, but their influences include everything from classic rock to New Wave.
There are no standout tracks on World War, but there are no weak ones, either. Das Llamas’ style is frantic and spastic, yet they’re contained and tight. Thomas Burke’s drums are relentless, and they duck and weave around staccato and repetitive guitar riffs. Above it all, Kerry Zettel’s clouded vocals seem to propel the music. There’s hardly a chance to catch your breath during the frenetic 31-and-a-half minute record. Throughout this whirlwind of a record, Das Llamas maintain an original sound. To me, they sound like many New York City bands of this decade such as Liars, Interpol, and Yeah Yeah Yeahs, but they add a gray Seattle scuzzy quality to the proceedings, giving them a whole lot of lock-up-your-daughters attitude.
Das Llamas likely won’t achieve mainstream success, but they seem to have a bright future with indie rock fans. Listen for the buzz. It’s coming soon.
Scale:
0. Shoot yourself
1. Poor
2. So-So
3. Good
4. Excellent
5. Instant classic