Pony Up

Pony up, we're going to Chicago. Well, at least we're going to talk about The Ponys, who are from Chicago. Their third release Turn the Lights Out is due out on Matador Records on March 20.

Just so you know whether or not to buy this pretty damn good album when March 20th rolls around, I'll tell you a little about it. The Ponys have this kind of lo-fi The Strokes feel to them, and the arrangements are certainly more rock-punk driven. The band does a pretty good job of never resorting to excessive loudness to make their point, and I thank the heavens for that. There are some intoxicating basslines (see "Double Vision") and the vocals are definitely above average. Add some pretty heavy guitar and now we're talking.

My personal favorite on the album is "Double Vision", which is a sure bet to be the lead single. It's catchy, it's lazy, it's rock. "1209 Seminary" is also a highlight, which features a infectious chorus. And "Shine" is just a real solid rocking track.

Go and buy Turn the Lights Out.
Matador has provided two songs from the album:
Listen to "Double Vision" (4.6/5)
Listen to "Poser Psychotic" (3.5/5)