If you’ve kept up with my reviews over the years, you already know I’m a little obsessed with Tennessee. There’s just something about that state that just puts out the best music in any genre. When I was a kid, Superdrag was my favorite band. I remember wanting to hear more artists in the same vein so I looked to where they were from; Knoxville. It was there I discovered acts like Rude Street Peters and 30 Amp Fuse. Since then I’ve had a soft spot for the scene. Naturally, I was more than stoked to get my hands on Fireproof / Motor Mouth, the vinyl debut from Sweet Years.
Knoxville doesn’t have what you would call a distinct sound, but the city is home to some of the best indie rock n’ roll in the country.
But I’m not gonna discuss the history of Knoxville in this article, I’m here to recommend their new 7″ on Soul Step Records! Side A’s “Fireproof” is equal parts Local H and Jeff Rosenstock with its stop-and-go, quiet-loud aesthetics. Giving the listen healthy blend of power-pop melody and snotty punk. Side B’s “Motor Mouth” goes for the more atmospheric approach but with hints of bubblegum with its background vocals and melodic guitar solo.
Taken from Sweet Years’ Coat Guts album, both tracks on this Coke bottle-colored 7″, are the perfect introduction to what this band is about; rock n’ roll that can be heartfelt and soulful but just enough wit to keep it fun. Something those legendary Knoxville bands are famous for. In that sense, Sweet Years is somewhat carrying the proverbial torch of indie rock to a new generation.
With infectious hooks and upbeat production, I’m not surprised Fireproof / Motor Mouth is released through Cincinnati’s Soul Step Records!
There’s a certain theme I’ve picked up throughout the past few years listening to Soul Step. Each artist they work with caters to progression. Sure there are elements of the familiar and maybe a little nostalgia but it’s never pretentious. Despite no two releases sounding alike, there’s no questioning Soul Step’s criteria. Sweet Years chose the perfect label to release their vinyl debut.
For more information on Sweet Years, please visit them on Facebook.
To purchase Fireproof / Motor Mouth on limited edition vinyl, visit Soul Step Records.
