by Derric Miller
— Managing Editor —
There’s not too many bands today who have the cojones to record their new studio album live. With far too many bands offering over-produced sugary schlock “that sonically is perfect” it’s refreshing to see The Erotics give all of those Def Leppard wannabe Hard Rock bands the middle finger and shout “THIS is how a grown ass man makes music!” That’s The Erotics, and their new release Let’s Kill Rock N Roll comes complete with live scabs, scars, sweat and a savage attitude.
The Erotics brand of sleazy, snarly Punk/Hard Rock rejoices on the title track, “Let’s Kill Rock N Roll.” Almost surprising melodic at the onset, they head right into Heavy Metal land with mechanized riffs, only to go back to their Punk stylings. If you haven’t heard singer/guitarist Mike Trash sing, he sounds like if he gargled gravel, the gravel would break. On top of harsh delivery, though, he’s melodic as hell–everything he sings is catchy. This song has everything The Erotics do best, and that’s living inside of multiple genres while bringing it together into a huge anthem. Plus, just the title alone kicks ass.
“Head of the Low Class” is another sharp play on words, with barb-wired riffs and scraping vocals. “I’m the black cat that crosses your path,” is definitely an apropos lyric and symbolism for the band itself. Who the hell would want to go on AFTER The Erotics leave the stage? Listen to this song, and you’ll find few takers. The crowd cheering adds a fevered element, as they did actually record the entire album in front of a crowd.
Why anyone would want to “Lie My Way into Hell” is a good question, and it’s also a great theme for a song. “Even the devil won’t let me stay … the Lake of Fires cast me out because of too much sin.” Hot damn just another massive sing-along anthem that puts a crooked, unhinged smile on your drunken, bloodied face.
“Up to No Good” lets drummer Johnny Riott shine under the dark light with his deft yet pounding style. This track is simple as a The Ramones song, and almost as much fun. Searing guitar solo too, one of the best on the release. The breakdown, though, makes the album come alive, with a screaming crowd and a bit of interaction with Trash and the fans.
They finish killing rock n roll on “You’re History,” the owner of a groovy, somewhat complicated and jarring rhythm. Out of all the songs here, this is the least straight ahead song, and you’ll want to go back to it again and again because of Riott’s drumming and Tony Culligan’s bass playing.
It’s The Erotics. They’ve never once released a half-assed album, and never will. The consistency and quality never wanes, which, considering their snarky attitude and mix of Sleave, Punk and Hard Rock, you might consider them a train wreck waiting to happen. Maybe they are, but they are taking everyone with them, starting with Rock N Roll.
Genre: Hard Rock, Punk Rock
Band:
Mike Trash-lead vocals, guitar
Johnny Riott-drums
Doug Reynolds-guitar
Tony Culligan-bass
Tracklisting:
01. Nothing To Sing About
02. Let’s Kill Rock N Roll
03. Lie My Way Into Hell
04. Monday Morning Meltdown
05. Head of The Low Class
06. You’re History
07. Scare Myself To Death
08. All Ripped Up
09. Wrong Kind of Love Song
10. Sweet Cyanide Kisses
11. Up To No Good
12. When You Fly Away
13. Snake in The Grass
14. Fighting Like Cats And Dogs
Label: Independent
Online:
https://theerotics.hearnow.com/
Hardrock Haven rating: 
(8.2 / 10)
