At the Drive-In -- Hipster Music

In Casino Out

ATDI isn't lacking anything when it comes to energy. The lead singer screams himself raw, and gives us the Rage Against the Machine type intensity, but with a more melodic and, gulp, emotional approach. Yeah, they're not screaming about the government and free trade, but they certainly are intent on something akin to love. This album finds them still trying to find their footing at times. The songs certainly aren't as strong as they are on Relationship of Command, but the kernel of what is to come is there in spirit. Call it a junior version of the band that eventually emerges. This album shows them as the ugly duckling just starting to show signs of growing into the swan, but it won't be for another full LP that they truly emerge into their true glory.

Relationship of Command

I kick myself every time I think about the fact I resisted this album after a cursory listen. It sounded too metal and too brash. What the hell did I know? After finally agreeing to a real listen after being hounded by a friend, I discovered that this is one of the most emotionally charged, rockin' albums in my entire collection. Amazing in its intensity and sheer musicality, this is, in my opinion, what rock and roll should be. Both serious and somewhat pretentious, ATDI have decided that rock need not be mindless and silly, but can be, *gasp*, emotional while still making you want to air drum and blow the doors off your parents' Lexus. It's a shame these guys called it quits when they were heading towards such greatness.

Vaya