A Albums (6)
'Rockin' Like Dokken'
Release Date 3/3/2003
Tracks 6
Label WEA/Warner
See Album Tracklist and Review
What The Critics Say
Great pop-punk records are actually a fairly rare creature in the overall picture of alternative rock. Despite the high volume of releases, whole years go by without a significant or exciting album being made in the genre. That is why the blissfully sweet Hi-Fi Serious is such a wonderful surprise. Whereas in the past A always showed potential, on this record they took that step forward that so many of their contemporaries are afraid to take. And what a step forward it is; gorgeous hooks, excellent production, and anthemic choruses that border on hair metal at times all add up to an irresistible sound that should appeal to any fan of the genre. By cutting away the snotty Green Day worship that makes so many of these groups obnoxiously coy, the group can explore other genres without any concern over sounding too ironic or goofy. They have definitely moved in a more commercial direction on this record, adding elements like synthesizers and heavily processed backup vocals that might damage their credibility, but make their music just that much better. The booty-shaking title track may be the best pop song the group has ever crafted, moving from the tense and driving verses to a swaggering chorus with such ease that it's a wonder they never displayed this sort of songwriting talent before. The fantastic "Nothing" feels like it could burst apart at any moment, but instead it holds together with a chorus that burns its way into your brain and refuses to leave. "Took It Away" feels like it's breaking apart toward the middle, then it makes a dramatic turn into a breezy Southern California section that brings the song to the next level. "Starbucks" is almost too catchy to be likable, but they manage to turn the song into a cutesy-but-endearing pop nugget by the end. And "The Distance" is either a pleasantly unique punk-pop anthem or the best hair metal song written since Poison's "Ride the Wind," and that is really the only way to describe it. Any fan of this genre who isn't afraid of a little experimentation should find themselves highly rewarded by giving this a shot. In a genre that is hideously oversaturated, it is a genuine relief to hear albums like this. It reminds the listener of how good this genre has the potential to be when in the hands of musicians that aren't afraid to be poppy first and punk second. ~ Bradley Torreano, All Music Guide
What The Critics Say
Blending the best of Brit-pop with the bite of punk and a touch of techno, this outfit offers a visceral burst of energy. While lead singer Jason Perry sounds particularly influenced by Perry Farrell (Jane's Addiction), the mix of catchy hooks and snotty insolence put this disc over the top. Dig the bounce of "Old Folks" or the frontal attack of "For Starters" and you'll get a good idea of where they're coming from. ~ Tim Sheridan, All Music Guide
What The Critics Say
Those familiar with the dialect of A's native eastern England will recognise "How Ace Are Buildings" grammatically as a statement rather than a question. Although its meaning is never totally revealed, it typifies the band's intent to race into rock's psyche with a powerful debut, rather than tip-toe onto the stage with the feelers out. Rock is the passion here: their logo is Aerosmith-esque, AC/DC have taught them well, and no sooner has the leading track invited you to "Turn It Up" than it's headlong into "Foghorn," one of the most impressive tracks and definitive of A's raucous sound. The gesture of an introductory bio in the form of "Cheeky Monkey" is served up, as if it were needed by now, to familiarize you with the group. "My name is Jason/I'll rock your face in/'Cause I've got relations in my band/We like Van Halen and Iron Maiden/And I'll do the talking, understand," yaps Adam Perry, who's infant-like vocal helps put across juvenile lyrical themes coupled with poppy harmonies. An almost visible energy has been pumped into delivering seven of the most mercilessly fast-paced songs you're ever likely to hear in succession, before taking a breather with the summery "Fistral." Superseded with a couple more potential singles (this album is flush with them), and the melancholic farewell "Ender," A's unveiling is a suitable one. In comparison to later efforts, there's little evidence of the impending electro input on 1999's A vs. Monkey Kong, and it's surprisingly several miles from A's powerful nü-metal approach on 2002's Hi-Fi Serious, though there are hints of the shamelessly American style, which comes to the fore in the latter release. Still, it's of its time and it's clear to see how they managed to join hands with Kerrang! magazine and British bands like Feeder and Ash into mainstream rock fame in the early 2000s. It's difficult to section this title, but a mention for Billy Joel's "My Life" on the superbly catchy single "No1" and name-checking Eddie Van Halen, Faith No More, the U.K.'s notorious Wildhearts and the Sex Pistols, Simpsons creator Matt Groening, and Marvel comics in the sleeve credits should give you some idea of whether you would enjoy this record or not. Generally, it's nice to hear a band having so much fun, especially on the self-indulgent hidden track at the end, which if nothing else gives the band a chance to have a final heavy guitar flourish. And why not? It's your first album; don't hold back. ~ Owen Guthrie-Jones, All Music Guide
