My feelings here are mixed. Since I first heard them, I’ve often seen Pins filed under the category of “post punk,” though their most recent single “Get With Me” exists really more as a straight up throwback rather than simply influenced by the punk rock scene of the 1970s. High energy and straightforward, “Get With Me” is a musical time machine that brings listeners back to the days of Patti Smith and the Runaways.
As far as girl punk goes, the ladies of Pins have captured in this single the stylized aloofness that so often characterizes the genre. However, whereas with past singles such as “LUVU4LYF” the group has taken inspiration from past idols and added in their own dramatic flair, “Get With Me” — while an enjoyable track — lacks the same sort of originality. It’s got your typical punk rock verse-chorus with a relentless bass line, withholding vocals and badass lyrics. A tried-and-true formula, but then there’s the DIY (though obviously not) style music video that only adds to the impression of a pale homage to the greats.
Don’t get me wrong; this is definitely worth listening to. And if it is meant to be something of a stylistic tribute, Pins has achieved their goal. The main difference for me here lies in the fact that with their first EP I was getting some serious shivers in anticipation of something new and simply wonderful, while “Get With Me” gives me a less extreme reaction. I like it, but I’m not surprised. Nonetheless, there’s still a lot to expect from these gals—their first full-length album, Girls Like Us, is set for release September 30.