Chump - "Viagraculture" - (Col
Records)
The latest reason to be thankful for Charleston's
thriving local music scene comes courtesy of Chump, whose latest release
gives some of the more mellow local acts a swift kick in the pants.
"Viagraculture" is no-nonsense rock 'n' roll from start to finish, with crunching
guitar riffs and frank lyrics that will appeal to those that prefer their
music on the raw side.
Chump is comprised of Lars Lindgren on guitars and
vocals, Outlaw Oldfield on bass and vocals, and Chris Cooper on drums and
vocals. Lindgren's vocals are reminiscent of Alice Cooper, you can even hear
him sneer on the chorus of "Living In Squalor."
Lest you think that a three-piece might lack something
in the power department, then check out the tracks "Pretty Little Head" and
"Integrity," both with big bad twanging guitar sound a la the Reverend Horton
Heat. There is even a down and dirty cover of the Rolling Stones' "Paint
It Black," that Keith and Mick would probably give their blessing to if they
heard it.
Great music aside, it should also be mentioned that
for a local act, Chump really seems to have it together on the marketing
side of things. With their own label, publishing company, and even a Web
site (www.chump.net) these guys aren't playing around.
So if hard driving rock with a local flavor is what
you're craving, you'd be a chump to overlook "Viagraculture."
(B+)