The Rakes
Artist Website: therakes.co.uk
capture/release Capture/Release
[Amazon]
Fooook, this shite is hot! This definitely is at the top of my 2006 list so far. Falling somewhere between the Brit snot rock of Art Brut and the raw energy of McLusky, these dudes know how to write a catchy tune. I'm not sure why having a sense of humor and actual song structure seems to be frowned upon these days, but one listen to these louts and you'll remember why pop is in fact based on the word 'popular.' Lush and beautiful it isn't, but the baselines and snappy drums will make you feel like you're in Clash heaven.

ten new messages Ten New Messages

More on Mr. Hipster
booze & grub surveyBooze & Grub
Reviews of New York City's most popular (and least popular) bars and restaurants.
moviesHipster Movie Reviews
Enjoy the rantings as Mr. Hipster proves he slept through his film criticism courses in college.
booksHipster Book Reviews
This much ignorance about literature can only lead to hurt feelings and a whole lot of nonsense.