Narc Twain: Narc Twain

Finding talent and inspiration, let alone combining them, can often be challenging. For Tommy Siegel (of Jukebox The Ghost), and the musicians involved in the Brooklyn based band, Narc Twain, it only comes naturally. The band’s excellent lineup of musicians, as well as some inspiration borrowed from Jeremy Schmall’s poetry book, “The Cult of Comfort,” make for a pretty solid debut. Narc Twain’s self-titled release is a practice in what it means to be alive in a rather bleak 21st century. The album features an onslaught of cynical lyrical lines and punk inspired melodies. It’s something else and by all means a definite great start for Narc Twain.

Narc Twain’s tunes are malaise laden, cynical, and packed with attitude. From the very start, with the song, “Downhill,” the atmosphere gains a snarky darkness. Singer and instrumentalist Tommy Siegel sings out, “Say it again, it’s all downhill from here.” It’s all burned out frustration –something of a social commentary. The majority of songs take on similar roles and while at times it feels like some relatively immature or baseless critique; the majority of songs hold up outside of their lyrical content. If discomfort isn’t your comfort –there’s still a ton to be enjoyed. Take for instance the third track, “Same Shit.” The song explores a never-changing world –per the song, “Same shit, in a different nightmare.” Outside of this, the instrumental melodies almost play out like a Weezer track, with an additional break of guitar solo. When the guitars really get to come forward, it’s brief but a fantastic addition and a moment of just what’s needed to keep the album tight.

While the theme of Narc Twain’s album may seem like a bit much, it is passable. Unfortunately, it’s easy to nitpick other bits and piece of the album. In particular, the band isn’t too thrilling and quite truthfully, most of their tracks play out like a sleeper match. Narc Twain is something you have to be in the mood for. While the upbeat roar of punk inspired instrumental lines may lure you in at first, the prevailing vocal lines tend to be a bit less interesting and overall the album seems to blend into itself. Only certain poetic lyrics leave that lasting impression and it’s otherwise a shame given that for the most part it’s a perfectly fine album.

Overall, Narc Twain’s self-titled release doesn’t feature any huge blockbusters but it’s still a solid listen. The tracks aren’t very tactful, but they have a lot to offer musically and otherwise. If being discontent is your thing, Narc Twain is for you. Otherwise, anyone looking for a great rock album with some minor punk or math influences –Narc Twain is a fine addition to the collection.

Rating: 7.0/10

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