The Knockout Pills--1+1=Ate
Estrus 2004
In terms of treble-spiked garage rock n' roll, there has hardly been a more convincing recent entry to the fray than the Knockout Pills' self-titled debut. The only question it left to be answered was whether or not lightning would strike twice for these guys. This follow-up, 1+1=Ate, replies with a resounding "yes." Your delight is all but guaranteed.
Since their self-titled debut, the Knockout Pills have come a long way in honing their harmonized melodic garage rock n' roll to perfection. The results on 1+1=Ate come off as a righteous blend of Cheap Trick and thee Headcoats, with a dash of Turbonegro's vast feeling hard rock power thrown in to good measure. The production quality here is pretty clean, with a strange sense of rawness retained. Translation: this listen couldn't get much better if it tried. Somehow, the Knockout Pills have managed to improve upon their virtually flawless first outing.
Just like last time, 1+1=Ate stands jammed pack with amazing songs. The hypnotic harmonized background vocals on "I'm Lost" aid in giving the track an epic eastern-tinged psych feel. Some serious piano pounding helps "Not For Nothing" cut through the rest a bit, while the handclap accentuated "Summertown Rundown" is rock n' roll all the way, even boasting some tasteful female screams. There really isn't a stinker in the bunch.
If you're just getting hip to the Knockout Pills, 1+1=Ate is as good a place to start as any. Regardless, you will definitely need both of their albums, so don't stop here--that first one is a killer, too. Ladies and gentlemen, the Knockout Pills are officially on a roll. Prepare to be rocked.
Score this CD directly from ESTRUS
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