Review Tue Oct 20 2009

Album Review: Cococoma -Things Are Not All Right

Everyone knows things suck right now. The economy doesn't seem to be improving, no one has a job and going out to see cool local bands live has become a luxury. Proper social graces tells us that when things are going poorly we should comfort others by telling them that things will be all right. Cococoma is a band that knows better and thus called their second full length release (due out today on Goner Records) Things Are Not All Right because sometimes, the truth hurts but needs to be told.

The first track on this fast paced surf meets garage rock album is "You Better Beware" a rocked out caveat to nothing in particular followed by "Enemies" a song about knowing where you stand with those you don't trust. Dispite the pessimistic album title and songs about the darker side of human nature, the band does indeed rock and if you don't internalize the lyrics too much you have a great fast paced album which is great for dancing, ironically to forget about your troubles. Another notable track is "Lie to Me" a song which needs no explanation because haven't we all been there or some place similar? The closing song "Alright, Alright, Alright" of course tells the contrary, but somehow ends with the feeling that maybe things will be okay, just not right now. Cococoma has made a great rock album which is honest, full of great pop hooks, strong guitar work and is unbelievably catchy.

To make things seem a little less gloomy, the band has a record release show tomorrow at the Empty Bottle. Opening is French garage rock band Sonic Chicken 4, Soul punks,The Yolks and a DJ set by PsychedAlex. Tickets are only$3 in advance. $8 at the door. 21+. The Empty Bottle is located at 1035 N. Western Ave. (773) 276-3600

— Aharona Ament / Comments (0)