Review Summary: Simple, heartfelt punk-rock
The Swellers’ debut album,
My Everest, was a mature, well-crafted romp that strolled into people’s lives, hands stuffed firmly in its jeans’ pockets. Taken on its own merit the record was nigh-on perfect: memorable, fun and catchy without ever sounding sugary or juvenile; the only problem was a lack of individuality, something that would cut out a distinct niche for the Michigan upstarts. Well, for their sophomore record,
Ups and Downsizing, The Swellers stick with what they know and deliver another enjoyable slice of melodic punk-rock, again slightly burdened with a sense that it’s been done before. Thankfully, as before, they sidestep this rather deftly with a genuine gift for songwriting, one that feels effortless and organic – they might be treading old ground, but they make it seem so damn
fresh.
The greatest strength of
Ups and Downsizing is, by far, the hooks - they are everywhere, waiting around every corner to jump out and stick in your soft, malleable brain. Whether it’s the snappy power-chords of ‘Sleeper’, the beautifully simple chorus of ‘Watch it Go’ or the tuneful riffs scattered all over, you’re never more than a few seconds away from something that’ll catch your attention. Although not blessed with the greatest range, Nick Diener’s clear, warm tone (think Tony Sly, or Joey Cape) sits brilliantly with the feel of the music, giving the introspective lyrics an endearing, sincere edge. The simplicity of the words might be a hindrance to some, but personally it’s a little refreshing to hear a punk record that avoids grandiose, pseudo-political posturing and instead goes for the fabric of normal life in such an immediate way. Yes, they’ll need an injection of originality if they’re ever going to become leaders in the genre, but for now, The Swellers just want to hear you sing.
