The Takeover UK Running With the Wasters

by Curt Hauff
Staff Writer

For a debut album, Running with the Wasters is very impressive. The Takeover UK combine the biting wit and cleverness of Butch Walker with the old school punk style and raw energy of the Sex Pistols. If you’re familiar with either group, you’ll understand the allure of Running with the Wasters.

There are at least sixty pounds of oohs, ahhs and la la’s in this album, which is another Butch Walker trait. The instrument tones, backing vocals and musical stylings are where you’ll notice the distinct ’70s punk roots. As if that weren’t a nice enough combination of styles and talent, you get meaty hooks throughout the entire album.

To enjoy the true value of the opening track, “The Lonely Ones”, you’ll have to listen to the album and then put it on the shelf for a couple days. You’ll be guaranteed to hear yourself singing “ooh ohhhh ohhhh I’ll be the lonely one” before day three.

“Ah La La” is another track filled with oohs and ahhs. Amazingly, it’s also another track that will surface from the depths of your brain at some random point when you least expect it.

“Damn Tryin’” is another solid hook. It has a super funky breakdown in the bridge, which reminds you a bit of the Beatles, and Kenny Loggins’ “I’m Alright” intro. In addition to being an unexpected bright spot, it’s an excellent showcase of the band’s vocal abilities.

There aren’t really any inadequate tracks on this album. “Never been so sick” is a little repetitive, but what the song lacks in adventure, it more than makes up for it in energy and hook.

If you’re a fan of punk/pop music or have ever heard of Mr. Walker, you’ll truly enjoy getting your mitts on this gem.

Label: Ryko

TRACK LISTING
1. The lonely ones
2. Never been so sick
3. Ah La La
4. Running with the wasters
5. Denise
6. Distant shores
7. Kill me dead
8. Sleep it all away
9. Birthday boy
10. Damn tryin’
11. Main street crush
12. Evelyn
13. Don’t wait up

HRH RATING: 8/10