By Snilch

The Thermals
Personal Life
Kill Rock Stars

I’m new here to The Whiskey Dregs, and have something to prove – mainly, that I won’t always write glowing reviews.  With that in mind, I figured I’d establish some objective cred with an obvious victim: The Thermals. Now don’t get me wrong; I’ve always loved the band’s potential, but in all honesty, I like their live material more than their studio albums.  (Some of my friends will vehemently disagree with me here; this is just one person’s opinion.)

So Personal Life figured to be an easy punching bag.  By the time it had completely taken over my life, however, it became clear that I had underestimated the 5th proper album by this trio.  They’ve made a quantum leap forward, retaining the passion of their live shows while exerting control over the raggedy edge of their previous studio performances.  It’s a bold move forward, quickly and clearly establishing where they are now and where they are going:  they are a rock band, and a damn good one.

“Never Listen to Me” is a great example of this jump.  Now, I don’t know their albums inside and out, but this has got to be the most pulled back and controlled vocal treatment they’ve ever done.  And it’s spot on, possibly my favorite song of the album (although “Power Lies” is right there too).  It’s amazing the confidence with which they move through this album.

They still reflect a Pavement influence, but they’ve added a bit of Enon to the mix:  the bass/guitar interplay is simply light years beyond where I thought they were at before.  The drums are great, moving the plot forward whenever needed.  Lead singer Hutch Harris’ vocals have been a problem for me on some songs in the past; you’ll find no complaints from me here.  The music is tailored to his voice.  He sounds perfect.

Could it be that they’ve simply matured and found their voice?  Maybe.  Could it be new drummer (their sixth, I think) Westin Glass has gelled the lineup and it’s all coming together now?  Maybe.  Could it be a direction longtime fans will hate?  I really have no idea.  But in the end, I don’t care at the moment.  Bands often show glimpses of this kind of potential; few realize it.  The Thermals have.  Looks like I picked the wrong patsy.

Released on September 7, 2010

Track Listing

1. I’m Gonna Change Your Life
2. I Don’t Believe You
3. Never Listen to Me
4. Not Like Any Other Feeling
5. Power Lies
6. Only for You
7. Alone, a Fool
8. Your Love Is So Strong
9. A Reflection
10. You Changed My Life