Much Sleazy fun and frolics are to be had via the second album from these rollicking rockers with a sense of humour and a seemingly constant availability when it comes to party time.
Singer/guitarist Lizzy DeVine, formerly of Sweden’s Vains Of Jenna, fronts this foursome whose particular take on the rock ’n’ roll formula has already been compared to the ouput of 1980s Glam/Hard Rock Finnish hotshots Hanoi Rocks. There’s a Punky/Emo feel to much of the record that offers an extra buzz and shades a little bit darker than straight-ahead “feelgood”. The sense of humour is made apparent by some colourful lyrics (check out Final Deathroll, you might never go on a Transatlantic flight with these guys) and some of the song titles – Casket Case (instead of Basket Case) and Reapercussion (as in, you know, The Reaper? Geddit?).
Highlights include the afore-mentioned Casket Case with its (almost) Sweet Child O’ Mine intro and atmospheric outro, and particularly energetic track Kerosone (or is it Karosene? Dunno, maybe one pun too many). Final Deathroll follows the anthemic, melodic formula – is the “Halfway there?” potential singalong bit a nod to Bon Jovi?! – while most interesting of all are the very accomplished Bad Vibes and the ballad-y, Swedish-language Salt I Ditt Sar (salt in the wound).
Venomous Anonymous won’t break down any barriers or inspire a revolution but it’s still a blast, and sounds great played loud – production, mixing and mastering by Erik Martensson, who also contributes additional guitars and backing vocals. Cruel Intentions are DeVine, Kristian Solhaug (guitar), Mats Wernerson (bass) and Robin Nilsson (drums).
Interestingly, songs by The Cruel Intentions, Vains Of Jenna and also Hanoi Rocks all featured in the HBO series Peacemaker, created by James (Guardians Of The Galaxy) Gunn.
Venomous Anonymous by The Cruel Intentions is out on Friday (June 3) via Indie Recordings