Sleigh Bells

"Comeback Kid" MP3
from the album Reign of Terror
2012
iTunes

BY CHRIS KRAEMER | Jonk Music

"Comeback Kid" should be a welcome sound to fans of Sleigh Bells' 2010 debut album Treats. The single doesn't vary far from the band's unique and successful formula: a steady serving of noise, an extra helping of drum machine, teen-pop inspired vocals, and hold the intro.

One of two tracks released prior to the Brooklyn duo's sophomoric album has arrived; nearly six seconds pass before the first guitar riff plays, and the song doesn;t reach full swing until the seventeenth second! To most, that's not much of a wait, but for the seemingly impatient songwriting team of Derek Miller and Alexis Krauss, the intro feels like an eternity. It does fulfill its purpose, however, preparing the listener for the upcoming onslaught of percussion beneath distorted guitar. Perhaps subtle production differences like this short intro will lead to a more polished second LP without a decrease in energy or noise.

Managing to blend her trained, high-pitch voice with heavy rocking guitar, Krauss is more controlled as well and allows the repetitive dark lyrics to take hold. Somehow the collaboration continues to sound natural, as if the loud genre had always existed in your iTunes between Light Rock and New Age.

While the blistering pace of the beat doesn't immediately hit top gear, Sleigh Bells wastes no time forcing you to nod your head with the bass drum from the beginning. If "Comeback Kid" is any indication, Reign of Terror will keep headphone wearers in harm's way with volume dials on 11. Whatever Sleigh Bell's sound is called, head banging and crowd electrifying are oft-inspired results, and "Comeback Kid" is no different.

Comments

[phook]

It's definitely different. I have to admit, upon my first listen I didn't like it much. Give it time, though, it'll grow on you.

I prefer "Treats" for now, though.