The Grates, Gravity Won't Get You High

The Grates are three-piece band from Australia. The good thing about them is that their sound is generallly clean; there aren't a lot of guitar distortion and overworked drum beats. They go back to the simple days when bands could get away with a singer, a drummer and a guitarist.

They don't mind using slowing it down a little and singing something melodic, something simple. "Nothing Sir" is a perfect example. They're not afraid of being a little unusual either; "I Won't Survive" and "Sukkafish" have a strange yodel-like kind of quality in the vocals. Most of their tracks are probably considered power pop or even a little punk. Whatever, they're all in the territory of catchy, energetic tunes.

This is when they shine. Hyperactive, crazy, slightly off center. "19 20 20" and "Science Is Golden" are probably the two singles that represent the band's energy the best... or at least, the lead singer, Patience's. These songs will just make you want to get up and dance, go crazy. And the funky drum beat in "Inside Outside" is a nice surprise.

The album art is also interesting. A collage of drawings by the band that's both simple and intricate at the same time. Unfortunately, it lacks lyrics. I think that the inclusion of lyrics would have been worthwhile, because the lyrics are occasionally unusual and you'll want to sing along.

The only other negative aspect about this album is its length. Song length can feel too short sometimes, but the entire album runs for about 45mins or thereabouts.