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Review: Smalls - Expecting The Worst

Smalls - Expecting The Worst                                
Release Date: June 03, 2013
Record Label: Self Release
Rating: 8/10
For Fans Of: The Wonder Years crossed with Paramore
Buy It Here



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 Smalls are a four piece pop punk band hailing from Los Angeles. Expecting The Worst is their debut release. Throughout the course of four tracks, we're introduced to a refreshing take on pop punk. Rather than throw their lot in with any particular wave of the genre, the band steer clear of breakdowns or synths and have achieved a sort of timeless pop punk band feel.  All of this centred around powerful but likeable female vocals, and Smalls are onto something big here. 

The songs themselves perfectly display just how good these guys are. Opener, "Lizzie" is relentlessly upbeat and catchy as hell. "The Great Gambino" is a little tighter musically but largely is professional enough to be enjoyable, but edgy enough that it doesn't become bland. The vocalist hits all the right spots and, surprisingly considering the genre, the lyrics throughout are quite excellent. 

Overall, Smalls have released a wonderful introduction to the band. This is the sort of EP which is perfect to soundtrack summer days but is also suited to something a little more emotional. Great stuff. 

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