Blood Lemon
Self-Released, 2021
10/10
A trio from Boise, Idaho, Blood Lemon i.e. Lisa Simpson (vocals. guitar), Melanie Radford (bass, vocals) and Lindsey Lloyd (drums), know their way around songs that tip their hat to ‘90s legends like Pixies, Hole or The Breeders on this exceptional debut.
“Bruise” leads the listen with some dense buzzing that, thankfully, makes it very apparent that alt-rock is on the horizon as both grit and melody enter the punk influenced and indie-rock climate, and this formula continues to the crunchy and noisy “Whistleblower”, where Simpson’s versatile singing makes an impact,
Closer to the middle, the punchy, swift “Burned” glides with a pop and garage rock spirit, while “The Stone Castle” is a more subdued display of power and melody as angular guitar work and proficient percussion work together dynamically. Further yet, “Black-Capped Cry” alternates between bare beauty and thick moments of throbbing rock that’s impossible not to adore.
Approaching the end, “One More Time” takes nods to the ‘90s with its strategic tension and moments of calm, even soothing rock, and “Leave The Gaslight On” exits the listen with post-punk traces amid a dreaminess that highlights the strong guitars, proficient drumming and meticulous nature of the trio.
A superb record that’s full of sturdy riffs, a lively rhythm section and with the spirit of the Riot Grrrl movement intact, Blood Lemon are both ferocious and pretty, hard hitting and tuneful, and they embrace the most important pieces of the ‘90s on one of the best records of 2021.
Travels well with: Teen Creeps- Forever; Matthew Sweet- Catspaw