What if The Weakerthans, Superdrag, Cracker, and The Old 97's decided to get together and start a band? The result would be Roy. This quartet comprised of former These Arms Are Snakes and Botch members has brought together elements of country, punk, pop, and good old rock and roll. With jangly guitars, hooky songs, and smart lyrics Roy has made a wonderful album.
Front man Ben Verellen sneers 'It's all a lie when the rebel sings on primetime this band is dead so it's over and goodnight' on 'Don't Overdub My Heart', a song lamenting about the state of the music industry. On 'Something that's Real' a battle cry so to speak is being beckoned for a generation hiding behind a façade to be genuine. Roy also touches on just about every social issue available including the torments of affording prescription drugs without sounding preachy or contrived. They have created a unique sound, which is something that is extremely rare in today's music scene. Some songs have that gentle country swagger with acoustic guitars while others are straight-ahead power pop anthems. Roy is something fresh and new, they sing urban anthems with a message that needs to be heard.
3.5/4
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