Radkey – Dark Black Makeup

When Radkey emerged from their bedrooms circa 2010, the three teenage brothers from Missouri were hailed by many as punk rock prodigies. But are they the next big thing, or merely a punk Hanson? Dark Black Makeup, their first LP, is a collection of garage punk blasts that cement what the hype already told us – that Radkey do very competent, energetic retro rock. There’s an inevitable paint-by-numbers feel though, as though the brothers are instinctively mimicking the punk rock greats of old with little consideration for innovation.

Ironically for a group whose trademark is their frenetic tempo, Dark Black Makeup’s promise rests in its slower moments. Latest single Feed My Brain takes a more focused approach to melody, albeit with a clunky chorus, and Dee Radke’s lovely subterranean voice is put to much better use alongside Hunger Pain’s smooth, funky bass and sharp riff. We know that Radkey can do loud, but they’re a more interesting band when they try a little quiet.