Reviews

It’s always interesting when someone can compare a band to Avail and The Strokes in the same sentence without having previously been diagnosed as legally deaf.  Of course, it’s also a little awkward when that comparison makes sense. One half hardcore band, the other half late seventies hip garage band, The Boss is honestly like nothing I’ve ever heard before. Moderately difficult to swallow and sometimes a straight up mess, “Lay Down Your Firearms” is without question a unique record. It is however unique in the sense that it is somewhat lacking in organization and order which I suppose is not always a negative thing because all in all, this record is a more than decent listen.
 
Vocals are raw, gritty and somewhat indigestible.  Songs like “Your Scene” give off a distinctly hectic and displaced feeling with heavy vocals and upbeat, slap-happy instrumentals.  This is such trickery! I would go so far as to compare this band to a British Mewithoutyou.  A more concise listen leads me to view this album as a much needed rebellion against the British indie pop explosion.  Yes, it comes from the UK but it doesn’t sound like Keane, The Boy Least Likely To or anything else that’s come from that country lately.  Disturbingly refreshing, haphazard and almost challenging best describe the impact of The Boss’ Engineer debut.
 
If you’re looking for something relaxing to tune out to while you sew buttons on a sweater or take a nap in the middle of the day…don’t count on The Boss to bring about any sort of calming effect. The Boss is an attack.  Questioning their roots and taking the initiative to mix their love of hardcore and its spicy aftertaste with the British rock sounds that made counterparts rich and famous, The Boss is going to soon make their attack with “Lay Down Your Firearms.” I suggest you at least check out this band, they prove to be an acquired taste, but I’m diggin’ ‘em.