The Binge – Il Cattivo
(Independent)

The sixth full length album from local indie rockers (The) Binge takes them into exciting new territory. Il Cattivo bares little resemblance stylistically to any of the band’s previous recordings, but still captures the same lo-fi, do-it-yourself spirit. They have chosen to reject all vocal obligations to concentrate strictly on creating guitar based instrumental rock. They’ve certainly done their homework, and you’ve got to give them credit for drawing their influences from some of the masters of the genre such as Link Wray, The Ventures, and Shadowy Men on a Shadowy Planet.

Most of the songs are fairly short and to the point, but they do not fall into the trap of repetitiveness and predictability that one often finds in surfy instrumentals. Songs like “The Night The World Exploded” have a raw, fuzzy rock and roll edge, while “Tailpipe” and “America” come across as slightly more polished and melodic pieces. Then there are songs that are just plain bizarre, like “Pure Wicked” with its chunky, off beat chaos, and “It is Bark” which has a slight country feel, and nicely incorporates the use of chimes. Driven by dual guitars and held together by a powerful and tight rhythm section, The Binge have a great sense of when to turn it up loud and when to hold back.

Il Cattivo is an impressive album, and definitely one local release that I feel no shame in recommending highly. — Sean