Jon Flynn and Joel Wall are the mechanics behind the Los Angeles-based Diamond Hands. When released in 2016, the duo’s self-titled debut album was available only on vinyl. But Kool Kat Musik recently revived the collection on compact disc, which will no doubt provide the extra exposure it so greatly deserves.
If you weren’t aware of the copyright date of Diamond Hands, you could easily be hoodwinked into thinking it is a long lost George Harrison project. The guitar work – which alternates between crunchy jangling and bluesy weeping – particularly emphasizes his influence, as well as the melodious mannerisms.
Pierced with handclaps, a sprightly step and penetrating breaks, “Maybe Tomorrow” weighs in as an impeccable impression of mid-’60s styled pop rock. “See You Again” delivers with a swing and a swagger, grooving and grinding with raw-boned energy, and “Nothing to Lose” crackles to a country-blues shuffle.
A softer tone guides “Siren Song,” while Diamond Hands fuses bright harmony pop and sprinklings of psychedelic phrasing on “Just Another Day.” Driven by fuel and spark, “Old Man” and “Not the Same” are hook-laden garage-rock ravers.
Aside from the George Harrison presence occupying Diamond Hands, shades of bands such as Badfinger, Raspberries and the Spongetones – whose own recordings are heavily tattooed with Beatles references – crop up here and there, as well.
Channeling their tight and tasty compositions with crystal clear clarity, Diamond Hands unleash one shining nugget after another on their first album. There’s nothing wrong with retro rock, especially when it is performed as good as this.
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