Review Summary: 80's hard rock via kids of the pop-punk generation
Hard rock in the 1980's had a distinctive sound compared to other eras. While still keeping many of the elements established in the 70's, predominant acts of the time period such as Van Halen and Guns N Roses borrowed catchy hooks, anthematic songwriting, guitar playing style, and other elements from hair metal. On their debut self titled LP, Lamp Shade Betty takes us on a nostalgia trip following this style with a few refreshing modern twists.
Right off the bat it is apparent how much instrumentally the band has to offer. Guitarist Casey Weishaar's contributions are memorable and well performed throughout the album. Whether it be the teeth-kicking riffs of "Take It All" and "Take Cover", the groovy and sexy picking on "Death By Seduction" and "Set Me Free", or the expertise finger taping on "Dream About You" and "Wake Me Up". Weishaar never ceases to entertain and lays down the perfect punch underneath the hooks. Drummer Noah Schriener as well keeps things interesting. He is able to sneak his Andy Hurley-esque fills into the right spots on songs, especially on "Back To The Start" and the middle of "Take It All". Bassist Trey Gust keeps up with the rest of the band and adds his own touch to things on "Break Away" and the smirkingly dirty bass line on "Death By Seduction".
Frontman Ben Schriener is as well a key piece to the band's sound. As a lyricist he does a good job of fitting the mould of the 80's hard rock feel, speaking about lust and all the attachments that come with it. Some exceptions being "Take It All" which criticizes the way record labels screw bands over and feelings of being trapped into a constant routine on "Set Me Free". Where Ben really shines is his knack for mammoth sized choruses and having the vocal range to fulfill them. He offers a variety of hooks with the power ballad "Dream About You", the fist pumping "Take It All" and the made to be sung along to "Death By Seduction". Perhaps his most memorable is "Back To The Start", who's instrumentation and style reminds of early 2000's pop-punk.
In conclusion, Lamp Shade Betty teases some remarkable talent and is sure to be a treat for fans of 80's hard rock while still incorporating some more modern ideas. Hopefully someone will discover this Twin Cities gem in due time.
