Neon Blonde

The fact that they released Burn, Piano Island, Burn and Crimes within one year of each other was impressive, but even when the Blood Brothers take some time off they’re busy releasing music. Alongside Jordan Blilie and Cody Votolato’s Head Wound City is the project of vocalist Johnny Whitney and drummer Mark Gajadhar: Neon Blonde. An attempt to remove a little of the guttural aggression their full-time band flaunt, Neon Blonde indulge in some danceable rhythms and Eno-esque art rock that never completely abandons the Blood Brothers core. Whitney’s voice is still ripe with that unmistakable yelp on the jerky and jagged "Princess Skullface Sings,” but he pulls out some surprises on "Chandeliers and Vines,” dressing his voice in a sophisticated tone over top of a piano melody that both Elton John and Paul McCartney could use. No joke. "Headlines,” on the other hand, adds to the mix further bouncing to a gun popping beat à la Suicide. Those who savour the Blood Brothers’ hardcore ties might be put off by Chandeliers in the Savannah and find more solace in Head Wound City, but the fans who appreciate their artistry should eat this up.