Actually a single-man vehicle driven by Eric Blakely, the Bottle Kids score home run after home run on Such A Thrill, which rates high on the scale as one of the greatest debut albums to sail down the street in many moons.
Spirited pop rock, dripping with vintage vestiges in the vein of the Nerves, Paul Collins and Doug Derek and the Hoax are the order of the day here. As a matter of fact, there’s even a tune, the catchy and chugging “Revisit The Past (Who Says You Can’t)” included on the disc that shares fond memories of growing up and digging cool records of yore. But despite flaunting an affinity for old school sounds, the Bottle Kids are by no means a retro act. The songwriting is inventive, the arrangements are fresh and the themes are universal, resulting in the kind of fare that will always remain relevant.
A funky swagger bleeds through the arresting action of “Kissing You” and “Where Is Sara Tonight” hops and bops to a giddy new wave gait circled by contemporary designs. Spurred by punchy drumming and rushing rhythms, “Yes You Can” rocks with passion and intent, while “I’m In Love With You” wheels in as a touching ballad, and the title cut of the disc spins and soars with lively instrumentation and wicked breaks.
Peppered with soul and style, “Wave Goodbye (There She Goes)” serves to be another top-notch ditty on Such A Thrill (Kool Kat Musik), along with the moody bluesy janglefest of “The Most Beautiful Girl In The World” and tunes like “Careful What You Wish For” and “Every Single Teardrop Is A Tidal Wave” bristle and bubble with classic power pop movements.
Overflowing with never to be forgotten hooks and melodies, Such A Thrill sparkles consistently with radio-oriented songs. Word has it that Eric will soon be putting together a full-fledged band, called the Bottle Kids, of course, which is indeed fantastic news. Such A Thrill is only the beginning of something very special from this multi-talented Austin, Texas based musician.
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Eric originally wanted to mix this CD with me, so I’ve been listening it for many months. We just couldn’t get our schedule’s together.
I still love this CD and totally agree with this review, it is so consistently great, very unlike most CDs where there are songs you want to skip.
I played keyboards in the Eric Blakely and the Blame band for 5 years back in the early 80’s. Had a blast. Great memories, and vinyl album to boot.