The Radio Reds New Release Everything Is Alright

The Radio Reds

Memory Loss

Scaredy Cat Records, 2013

North Carolina’s The Radio Reds first came on my radar in 2011 and since then have earned themselves a spot on my permanent playlist, no easy feat, to be sure. Memory Loss is their first full length, following several EP’s and a split release.

This a band made up of young men, in their early twenties and yet their lyrics consistently convey a maturity and depth their youthfulness belies. Other bands might find themselves obsessing with more base distractions or are self absorbed in ridiculous self created emo torments. But The Radio Reds and front man Stephen Kent examine life and themselves at arms length. Close enough to be affected, close enough for it to be messy, and far enough away to be able to get on with life and living.

Two older songs “Moloch,” and “Columbia,” are re-branded and get reworked enough so fans will notice, but the time spent living with them has helped them find their true form. A new number, “Southern Belle” is a radio ready song if there ever was one. Once again it is doubt that dogs the narrator’s every step. “Maybe I could leave home/Not fall through the cracks/ Maybe I could be someone/Able to treat myself alright.”

“The Artist” is a horn fueled punk overload of the first order. As is the nitro fueled raw burn of “Let it Show,” both determined barn burners, and as with the rest of the album show off a strong sense of melody always.

This is a really solid disc that shows the band from all angles. Their brooding introspection along with the need to punch walls now and again. The band handles these turns in the road easily and with a just enough flourish and flash when called for. The Radio Reds continue to make good on their promises of brilliance. Memory Loss is memorable from start to finish.

You can improve your day by listening to The Radio Reds here: http://theradioreds.bandcamp.com/