The Kinison CD Reviews

THE KINISON

"What are You Listening To?" (La Salle; 2004)

Reviewed by Mike SOS

The Kinison's unbridled punk rock spirit has been vividly captured on "What Are You Listening To?" This 11-track release is laden with intriguing twists and turns and convincing vitriolic virtue.

Helmed by the same folks that brought us Refused and Poison the Well, it's no surprise that the caustic vocals and jagged rhythms on tracks like "Oh Boy That Girl Can Move" and "You'll Never Guess Who Died" are a bit reminiscent of Glassjaw's or At the Drive In's most melodically fractured moments, while the straight-ahead sharpness of "Lake Calmern is Full Now" will skillfully chip away at that gnawing pit of angst in your gut.

Anguish hasn't sounded this hip in a long time, and we've got The Kinison to thank.

For more information, check out www.thekinison.com.

"Mortgage is Bank" (Fearless; 2003)

Reviewed by Snidermann

The Kinison are a cool band on so many levels. First, their music rocks, always aggressive, usually faster than hell and always very loud. Second, it's damn original, too. Third, how can you not like a band named after the greatest rock'n'roll comedian ever, Mr. Sam Kinison? (As regular readers may know, many of Rough Edge's staff journey to Laughlin, Nevada every year to eat, drink, gamble and curse, all in memory of the late comedian).

The Kinison is a unique mixture of punk, metal and some strange shit thrown in just for fun. You want aggression? This band's got it, and I'm surprised lead vocalist Chris Lewis can talk after a live show. "Mortgage is Bank" was released on Fearless Records and I can see why - you'd have to be fearless to take on something so original.

"Mortgage Is Bank" is great, modern rock'n'roll. The slower songs don't hold your interest as well as the faster, harder ones do but they all kick ass. The Kinison has attitude and passion in spades.

Great band, great name and highly recommended.

The Kinison: Bub Knight (guitar); Chris Lewis (vocals); Aaron Faller (guitar); Mike Rivera (drums); Mike Villavicencio (bass).

For more information, check out http://www.thekinison.com.

Rating Guide:

A classic. This record will kick your ass.

Killer. Not a classic but it will rock your world.

So-so. You've heard better.

Pretty bad. Might make a nice coaster.

Self explanatory. Just the sight of the cover makes you wanna hurl.

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