Review Summary: How Corona supposedly brings taste buds to the coast, The Dirty Heads brings the beach to our ears.
Rock/Reggae. The first thought that appears in your mind after reading those two words are more than likely Sublime. This genre of music was dominated by Sublime throughout the 90's, and even today(I'm still referring to actual Sublime that was created from '91-'96, not that sh
it with Rome) 16 years later. Face it, Sublime is to Rock/Reggae what Tupac and Biggie are to rap. Enter the Huntington Beach 5-piece, Dirty Heads. Established almost a decade ago, the Dirty Heads had never created anything substantial enough until now[2008]. This album, releasing a total 2 singles, peaked in the U.S at 55. While the semi-popularity doesn't turn many heads, what most will be surprised to hear is that the music is good. Quite good, in fact.
The Dirty Heads aim to bring listeners music that can be directly related to lounging lazily at the beach. In this aspect, they succeed to the utmost. Every track found on this album tricks the human mind into believing they are currently bathing in sunlight as waves crash, when in reality they could be living in Anchorage hiding from the harsh winter. The Dirty Heads aren't attempting to become the next innovator of music, instead they have a simple idea and execute it perfectly and it is prominent from the start. 'Neighborhood' kicks off the album excellently, using every aspect of the Heads sound. It mixes the rapping of the verse, a reggae guitar riff, DJ play and a laid-back, catchy chorus. Each one of those points will be heard on every song, creating an easy-going sound. The rapping, albeit not outstanding, does go with the beat very well and Mario C's mixing is reminiscent of early Beastie Boys albums. In retrospect, this album sounds like the Beastie Boys with acoustic guitars.
While executing a simplistic idea as the Dirty Heads do well, it does not mean that musically it is great. Though every song is instantaneously foot-tapping worthy, you will realize that it is quite difficult to differentiate some of their songs. Although both 'Easy' and 'Driftin'' are immediately likeable, if you muted the words and only listened to the instrumentals you would believe that the 2 songs are actually the same. That's not to say that only the instrumentals are lacking; the lyrics often are quite similar as well. Ranging from teenage fun(their band name originated from getting caught stealing a 12-pack and someone yelling "Come here you little dirty heads!" after all.) and lyrics of love there is not much originality found and these two ideas are implemented into many of the songs, so don't expect lyrically intricate music. These are all cons found on this album, and normally mean doom to most music. I, however, do not believe they cause the album to go into a downwards spiral. Afterall, the Dirty Heads music is meant to be listened in fun, not to be divulged under a microscope for its amazing lyrical content.
'Any Port In A Storm' as stated before, is an instantly likeable album. It excels in the fact that it is simplistic, for this type of music is made to be easy on the ears. Cons can be found throughout, though it is hard to blame such an album for not having great guitar riffs and lyrical depth. Fans of Sublime or anyone into the Reggae/Rock genre will find this album instantly at home with their taste. Just sit back, relax, and drift away.
Recommended songs: Insomnia, Driftin', Knows That I, and Check The Level
