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{ True Madness Magazine }
Music Reviews
Scary Kids Scaring Kids, After Dark EP
2003, self-released
by James Eddy (who else?)
It seems that no matter how much I try to contain myself, I can’t help it. I love any band that can utilize a synthesizer to its catchy brilliance. The hooks that can generate from this lovely machine are so infectious I think I’ve just gotten sick-and the only cure is more Scary Kids Scaring Kids (from here on out referred to as the Scary Kids, for length purposes.) True, only two songs really fully utilize the keyboard power to an even discernable degree, those tunes alone (the rocket-ride that is “What’s Up Know?” and the much more contemplative “My Knife Your Throat”) make this band a real keeper. And that’s only where it starts.
The real key here is the ability the Scary Kids have to really balance out all their elements. There are elements of freakout rockout that’s countered by complex song structures and undeniably hip vocals. Lyrically, the band even shows more maturity than many of the bands they share legion with, stepping out of the “song about a girl” ring to explore other realms, namely the current unrest in the American Military in the roaring, beautiful Bulletproof. And yes, I just called this band beautiful. Under the entire hard, aggressive exterior (while I’m not usually one for bands that opt for the scream as much as the Scary Kids do, here is seems natural and not to forced,) there is a layer of some young kids who have total control of their craft, and not out to just make noise. The music is both understandable and attainable without coming off as expected, which is good. Honestly, it’s been a while since I’ve heard a band that has totally blown me away as much as the Scary Kids have. I look forward to everything they have to offer, and for once in my life actually wish I lived in Arizona. Bravo, boys, you got the fiver. Relish it while you can.
RATING: 5 out of 5
P.S. I downloaded this song for free, check it out for yourself at www.scarykids.com and be taken over by the wave that is SKSK.
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