Review: The Keeper Class “There From Here”
Having been around the Portland punk scene since 2014, it’s clear The Keeper Class have done this before. If punk is known for the angsty youth, then these youths are exhausted, assured, and primed to officially release their most significant work.
Right from the opening riff, straight out of a Vinnie Caruana b-side, I’m smitten. Raspy, snotty vocals, with tons of heart reminiscent of Lifetime and Latterman. The EP opens up with full warm crunchy guitars that immediately take you back to the mid-2000s on ironically titled opener, “The Last Locals.” TKC play a perfect balancing act of tension and release, leading you right into the hook, “I’ll move to Jersey!” There are many moments of brilliance throughout, There From Here. Each chorus cuts like a knife with clear and precise production. Ande Greene’s earnest delivery makes you lean in for each turn of phrase. His voice is rough, honest, and endearing. Not only do you buy everything he’s selling, but you wear it out of the store, empathizing with every word. Despite the songs running a touch long for the style, every note and line has its place. The vocal hold-out before the bridge in, “The Patron Saint of Last Call” gives the whole 3-track run purpose. The finger tapping by virtuoso Carlton Trott is just icing on this already decadent 3-layer cake. I strongly recommend finding a copy on any of the many streaming services. It won’t be leaving your ears anytime soon. Then scream along to all the words on June 27th with Rebuilder and Borderlines at Sun Tiki Studios.
There From Here (2019)
31st Street Records
Recorded and Engineered at Bottom Of The River Sound by Nicholas Bilotta
Mixed and Mastered by David Blais for Blais Mastering
Tracklisting:
1. The Last Locals
2. This Ones for the Pine Tree State
3. The Patron Saint of Last Call
https://thekeeperclass.bandcamp.com
https://www.facebook.com/thekeeperclass/
We are Rad Plaid. Portland’s Live Local Music Calendar. Signup free for tailored live music experiences, local music updates, and exclusive ticket giveaways.
