Active since 2005, the Successful Failures have earned the reputation as one of the best-loved bands on the independent music scene. A steady stream of recordings, coupled with a heavy tour schedule, rewards the New Jersey group with a high degree of visibility.
The Successful Failures will release Saratoga (FDR Records) on August 30, 2019, and this seventh full-length studio album will not only satisfy the earbuds of long-time fans but first-time listeners as well. The band’s vision – built upon a triple shot of rock, country and power pop – radiates with the kind of spark and inspiration-commanding crossover appeal.
Aside from bearing a readily fetching sound, the Successful Failures are praised for their witty and intriguing lyrical content resembling short stories. The characters and situations presented on the band’s forthcoming album take place in Knoxville, Tennessee, and an East Coast casino called Saratoga.
Bottled tight with chiming guitars and hefty hooks, “Love You So” and “Because We’re Ghosts” crackle and crunch with raw energy in top-grade garage pop fashion, and “The Ocean & the Stars” twangs and bangs to a nasally country-fried tenor. Split into three separate segments, “Knoxville Suite” views the Successful Failures exploring challenging vistas, fueled by curvy arrangements and misty hues, while a driving edge sneaks into the picture, capping the performance with a jolt.
You will also want to check out cuts such as “Everywhere She Goes It’s Raining,” “Ruby Ruby” and “Already In Two” that are delivered in the band’s grand tradition of flab-free rock and roll, grounded in pressing melodies and noggin-bobbing rhythms. The moody “Disgruntled Bankers” counts as another arresting tune to be had.
Judging from Saratoga, the Successful Failures are at the height of their game, which is certainly a huge compliment, considering how intoxicating they were to begin with. Fired-up chops with just the right amount of recklessness coat the songs, letting you know the band was born to do what they do. Confident vocals, exuding a snarky bite, bouncy keyboards, buff drumming and lip-smacking licks jam together in style.
The Successful Failures may not be alone in their chosen musical field, yet their material is stamped with their own unique impressions. Lively and loud, Saratoga is set to awaken the senses and prompt audiences to cheer the Successful Failures on.
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