The Heavy Heavy Low Low

Turtle Nipple and the Toxic Shock

BY Dave SynyardPublished Aug 23, 2008

Heavy Heavy Low Low really are on their own. Not many bands sound like them likely because not many can pull it off. When it’s time for their pop sensibilities, it’s like the Beach Boys on peyote trying to play hardcore. "Supernova Ninja Surfers” throws conventional tough guy elements to the wind and shows that originality can still exist, as HHLL sound more like Franz Ferdinand than a bunch of breakdown-loving bullies. This album drives in many directions — while listening to "Is This Your Homework,” you should expect a spaced-out feeling that’s like being on a rollercoaster that goes in a continuous loop until finally stopping at a random jazz-improv session. When HHLL do their brand of hardcore it’s not very traditional at all, and while "Trot Line Beer Can” features expected elements like heavy, distorted vocals from Robert Smith, their spazzed out, breakneck music is one to experience rather than be explained — just don’t expect the expected. One thing that can be easily explained is that their cover of Black Flag’s "Wasted” is completely dope, short, sweet and to the point. Turtle Nipple and the Toxic Shock is prescribed for fans of HHLL, people who are tired of the same old bag of hardcore tricks and need music to match their drugs.
(Ferret)

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