Watching Brass Tacks play is like “watching a ‘bromance’ in action” says Brass Tacks’ bassist Chris Wells. Although the band is relatively new, they’re on a musical binge – in the past month they’ve perfected 5 songs of post-punk magic and formed remarkable bonds with one another.
After just one jam session, Chris Lalonde, Brad Hale, Chris Wells and Ben Marth made time in their hectic schedules to practice at least every other day in order to transform themselves from four musically inclined guys into a genuine band.
Channeling the stylistic sounds of Fugazi, Modest Mouse, Mineral and At The Drive-In, Wells said, “We’re punk-rock, 15 years too late.”
However, upon hearing the band play, it’s clear they’re not too late to make a significant splash in the Ypsi/Arbor music scene.
The lead singer, Chris Lalonde, defines the band’s attitude with his raspy and heartfelt voice when singing songs like “Thirsting to Death for Life” and “Nervewrecker.”
“Nervewrecker is kind-of our song,” said Lalonde, and the entire band agrees that it’s their pride and joy.
The band bursts with post-punk effervesence when they join together in singing the chorus of “Nervewrecker,” which they’re particularly looking forward to performing with special guests during this Friday’s show at the Elbow room.
Between the buzz of the punk-rock guitars, insane drum work and layered arrangements, their songs should fall apart by any right. But on the contrary, Brass Tacks’ songs come together in savage genius.
Primarily written by Chris Lalonde and guitarist Brad Hale, the songs are always being revised and perfected. Some of their tunes have even been floating around since Lalonde’s previous band. Nevertheless, when Hale heard the songs he knew they needed to be played by Brass Tacks.
Currently, the guys rent a studio in Ypsilanti where they can practice all-day, every-day. Drummer Ben Marth says it’s the environment, filled with other studios and fellow friend bands, that helps them focus their creativity.
Clad with tattered furniture, splashed with orange walls and decorated with PBR cans and cigarette butts a plenty, the band’s practice pad indeed fits the bill of any good creative environment.
“We would sleep here if we could,” said Marth, and it’s difficult to imagine the guys leaving the studio if they didn’t have other obligations.
All their time spent practicing has paid off because the first Brass Tacks show is this Friday at the Elbow Room located at 6 S. Washington in downtown Ypsilanti.
The show starts at 10 p.m., but it’s best to arrive early. The band will be playing with fellow Ypsilanti bands and friends Hallway, Ferdy Mayne and Derby Mama.
If you can’t make it to that show the Brass Tacks will be making an appearance at the Screaming Eagle located on Cross Street on Febuary 26.
