SPILL ALBUM REVIEW: TAXI GIRLS – STATIC

TAXI GIRLS
STATIC
STOMP RECORDS/WILD HONEY RECORDS

Having released two EPs – Coming Up Roses and Rainy in 2023 and 2024, respectively – Montreal’s Taxi Girls have released their debut, full-length album, Static. Championed by Iggy Pop, and having shared the stage with The Hives, Billy Talent, NOFX, and NOBRO, the band’s debut sticks the landing amid growing anticipation as one of the most promising up and coming punk outfits.

“Say It!” is a track driven by juxtaposing elements. Ripping lead lines collide with lush chords throughout the verse before a catchy, power pop chorus erupts, led by an incredibly powerful vocal delivery that eschews what should be a poppy melody in place of something far more gravelly and throaty. Immediately, Taxi Girls will pull you in with “Say It!,” a track that opens Static by setting the tone for what the listener should expect. This is further demonstrated on the following song, “Try Harder,” a song that emphasizes the band’s ability to craft compelling melodies and rich supporting harmonies, all without sacrificing their gritty exterior and punk ethos.

Throughout 13 songs, Taxi Girls soar without a moment of weakness as they carve a relatively unique path that pulls from punk, garage rock, and pop in a way that feels both authentic and relevant. From the sleazy crunch of “Red Flag Crush” and the winding jams of “Auto Hysterics” to the upbeat strut of “Midnight Mixtape” and The Stooges inspired grim of “Kill Your Darlings,” Static is a fantastic record that demonstrates the versatility at the heart of Taxi Girls. In addition to these, and “Say It!,” the blistering “It Makes Me Think,” and the alternative “Highs // Lows,” stand as highlights.

On their debut album, Taxi Girls prove their worth as performers and songwriters with a body of work that pulls from many, often conflicting, streams as they form their own lane that will demand your attention. Most importantly, Static exceeds the hype of their resume, firmly establishing Taxi Girls as one of the most thrilling underground punk bands on the cusp of breaking new ground.

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