Savage Young Krayolas
Saustex/ Box, 2020
10/10
Listen to Savage Young Krayolas
Affectionately known as the Tex-Mex Beatles, The Krayolas enjoyed an obscure but exciting career as a scrappy Chicano garage rock band who held comparisons to names like Bob Dylan, the Who, Elvis Costello, and, of course, The Kinks.
Here, we’re treated to a potential lost album of recordings from the late ‘70s and 1980, when the band were still in their infancy and playing loud with their stage names- Jett, Sal and Freddie- intact.
“Aw Tonight” starts the listen with thumping drums before the roaring guitar enters the power pop filled atmosphere that complements the gritty yet tuneful singing from Hector Saldana, and “You’re Not My Girl” follows with a calmer approach as plenty of rhythm enters the powerful and raw setting.
There’s 11 tunes here and not a dud in the bunch, including their playful version of “You Really Got Me”, while “Cry Cry, Laugh Laugh” is a vocally softer display that’s no less impactful in its retro-filled spirit. “I Just Wanna”, the best of the best here, then finds itself residing in vintage rock’n’roll territory that’s punchy and instantly memorable.
Closer to the end, “Sunny Day” takes more of a dreamy approach that’s vocally strong, piano friendly and not short on harmonies amid its indeed sunny execution, and “Three Girls Flying In From Mexico City” finishes the listen dynamic and so well executed, especially when you consider the trio were just teenagers at this point, as David Saldana’s drums and Barry Smith’s bass work together with much chemistry.
Though The Krayolas had a loyal following in their home state and even surrounding areas, they didn’t quite garner the national attention they deserved, and ended up parting ways in 1988. However, some impressive reunion records arrived starting in 2007 and lasted for several years. Sadly, original member Barry Smith passed away in 2019, and if this ends up being the last release from The Krayolas legacy, well, no one can say that they didn’t go out on a very high note with this charged and aptly titled masterpiece.
Travels well with: The Kinks- Arthur Or The Decline And Fall Of The British Empire 50th Anniversary; Bee Bee Sea- Day Ripper