The Year of the (White) Rabbits

The critics have been giving mixed reviews to the White Rabbits. One student in Mrs. Doyle's 8th grade class described two songs off the new album:

A real student-musician, however, had a more positive review:

Head over to the press section of the band's websites to read some more of these mostly unflattering reviews. Now for my take on things:

the band: I first heard about this band back in February when a friend of mine told me that they rocked a mostly empty house while opening for Peter Bjorn and John in NYC. Their debut, Fort Nightly, was released on May 22 and the 'Rabbits have been gaining a tremendous amount of buzz ever since. Hailing from NYC, this high-energy sextet is sure to be one of this summer's best bets.


the sound: The White Rabbits use a well-portioned blend of vintage-rock and calypso grooves, while paying greater attention to details than many other concise garage rockers. They are akin to The Walkmen, but the music is less dense and the vocals less edgy.


the pros: They have what many similar bands lack: variety and subtly. They make full use of all six members, delivering especially well with their great harmonies and driving rhythm section.


the cons: Their recorded sound is a bit too confined to really set them apart from similar bands. At times it seems as though they should have given one more rub to the lucky rabbit foot in order to assure their status as indie rock allstars.


the verdict: This record will surely be one of the strongest releases of the summer. With a mainstage-worthy live show they are sure to be met with welcoming arms and pumping fists after a pitcher of margaritas.

it's no facebook, but it is a myspace

Listen to "the kid on my shoulders" (4/5)
Still not convinced? Listen to "navy wives" (4/5)
Also, check out a video segment on the band called "Practice Space"