SPILL ALBUM REVIEW: MAD ONES – WHAT IT TAKES

MAD ONES
WHAT IT TAKES
FORTUNE STELLAR RECORDS

Self-described as Toronto trash-pop, Mad Ones have returned with What It Takes, their fifth full-length album. Clocking in 26 minutes, the 10-track record captures a grungy sound that falls somewhere between the energy of The Stooges and the melodic sensibilities of early U2.

Opening with the ambient echoes of the title track, Mad Ones erupt through the light soundscape with crunching guitars and lead vocals reminiscent of that of Bono. The band sounds as though they were recorded live off the floor in a tight, dimly lit room of an unfinished Toronto basement. There is a chaotic energy to their performance that surpasses the thin sound. There is something to What It Takes that allows for the demo quality of the recording to work to the band’s advantage and post-punk roots. The following track, “Hydra Head”, is a high-octane rush of adrenaline full of abrasive guitars and pounding drums. It is clear with “Hydra Head”, that Mad Ones are at their best when indulging in their heavier, grittier influences.

Across the remaining eight tracks on What It Takes, Mad Ones continue to bounce between tracks led by ripping guitars, and others by elevating vocal melodies. Some tracks, like “Molly Moth”, are able to reconcile these two elements together, demonstrating a modern post-punk sound that feels unique to the band. “Molly Moth”, alongside “Hydra Head” are incredibly strong songs that shine among the best of What It Takes. Additional highlights include the dissonant take on the pop punk sound that is “Stranger Stranger”, the riff heavy “Drone”, and the up-tempo “She Talks”.

All in all, What It Takes is a quick and dirty record from Mad Ones that captures a raw energy and a grungy sound for the band’s melodies to sprawl across. The album shines despite its lack of polish, something which ultimately allows for Mad Ones to demonstrate their strengths through strong songwriting and an energetic performance.

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