Whoever manages the band Parkas should be shot. Seriously. They were smart enough to quote my 2007 review of “Put Your Head In The Lion’s Mouth,” in which I said “I can’t think of a better rock and roll record that’s come out this year.” But Christ on a popsicle stick, they went and released the band’s swansong in December of 2009, after every blogger of note has completed his year’s best list, and way too soon to be remembered on next year’s. It’s those lists that move albums, guys. I personally buy at least three or four records every year just because my favorite site told me to.
And “You Should Have Killed Us When You Had the Chance” would have made the list. No doubt. The album shows tremendous growth–it’s tight, hard, and pitch perfect.
Too bad it’s their last record. Why? I don’t know. But it’s very sad. I hope they have good plans for what’s ahead for them, because this group of musicians is far too talented to fade away. In addition to their incredible rock songs, the album features appearances by Fiona Stewart (Rock Plaza Central), Andrew Collins (Skeletones Four), Jesse Whiteside (Tacoma Hellfarm Tragedy), and Selina Martin.
For fans of: Gaslight Anthem, The Clash, and good music. No. Great music.
They will be missed. Sniff.
