Hotel St. George – City Boy Lemon
This is something a bit different for Melodygeek. Matt Binder, lead singer of Hotel St. George sent us a copy of their forthcoming album City Boy Lemon. We do not really do record reviews on this site because we already have trouble enough keeping up with the shows we go to, but maybe we will start sometime in the future.
Hotel St. George are a power pop/punk band specializing in fast songs with melody at its core. Fans of the Jam, Buzzcocks and other groups of that ilk will likely enjoy the band. Power pop is one of my musical nerd passions. I’ve seen HSG several times live now, and I am surprised to report that the album manages to be superior to their performances. The production is top notch, packed with loads of harmonies, and Binder’s voice sounds stellar, although his nasal style has been known to be a turn-off to some. I say give them another try if you previously dismissed the act, as the songs on City Boy Lemon are so irresistibly catchy they will be worming their way through your ears for weeks. My personal favorite is the song “Island Boy.” Its just damn good pop. If you told me Andy Partridge wrote this gem, I’d probably believe you, it is that fucking good. The band holding a record release show August 13th at the Casbah with Writer, Intricate Machines and Swim Party. A show not to be missed.
Here’s track 8 off City Boy Lemon.
