reviewed by Michael Thomas
You know you’re truly in a rock and roll band when you’re kicked out of a show for being too loud. TNG can make such a boast, and if anything it only fortifies their rock credentials.
Though few and far between, there are still a few bands out there (a lot based in the big city of Toronto) who are trying to preserve the grimy rock and roll of yesteryear. TNG attack their audiences with two electric guitars, bass and drums, a staple in rock-band configuration.
The album starts off with “Hit Me” which is intended to strike the listener right away. It’s definitely one of their more rocking numbers. While the intensity is great, the song suffers a little bit from the vocal delivery- the lead singer seems to do better when he’s singing as opposed to shouting.
“That’s Love” continues with the rock attitude, with the oh-so-honest line of “I don’t care, I just wanna get into your pants.” The next song, “Ringing In My Head,” turned out to be one of my favourites of the album. Though the song’s subject matter (getting up after a night of heavy drinking) has certainly been done before, it’s done with extreme catchiness, mainly in the smooth electric guitar and the hook of “I’ve got a ring-ring-ringing in my head.”
“Turn Your Head,” “The Wall” and “Payday” take things down a notch in attempt to showcase the band’s softer side. “Payday” was my favourite of the slower songs due to its blues-y guitar opening.
The band returns to rock form with the song “Sexcellent” which, while having a cheesy title, again shows the band is here to rock and have fun. “You Better Run” showcases some great backup vocals in the chorus and “Stargazer” hasthebest guitar solo of the album.
“Coming Home” ends off the album on a more sombre note. The electric guitar starts off shimmering and comes in more fully when the chorus kicks in.
It’s About Time is a fun trip through some good bread-and-butter rock and roll and should make for some acceptable listening. Get it on iTunes.
Top Tracks: “Ringing In My Head”; “You Better Run”
Rating: Strong Hoot (Good)
