Albums by this artist

One Time Bells (2002)

Young Lawyer (2000)

The French Kicks

Young Lawyer

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» A.K. GOLD | STAFF WRITER

The French Kicks Young Lawyer Startime International, 2000 RiYL: Jawbox, Strokes, The Natural History

Though this EP came out late last year, I am including it because the French Kicks are my favorite band of summer 2001! Blatant bias-yeah, but the band charmed the hell out of me in the live setting. Young Lawyer finds the boys building upon the Stones and Kinks-influenced, punk-loving rock that they first offered on their self-titled EP (My Pal God, 1999).

From the opening chords of "Young Lawyer," it is evident that the band has cranked it up a notch with finer production, tighter musicianship, and improved harmonies. Nick Strumpf's off-kilter drumming and Josh Wise's keyboard work groove perfectly on the opening of "The 88" while Matthew Stinchcomb's edgy guitar work is at its best on the hooky "Call Our Hands." There isn't a moment of Young Lawyer's 22 minutes that doesn't rock with abandon. Buy, listen, and fall in love.

A.K. GOLD | A.K. Gold lives in Washington, D.C., where she slaves away for a non-profit organization and constantly compares everything to New York City or Chicago. She's earned her "cred" as a college radio and pre-1960 country music DJ, committed indie label street teamer, sporadic zinemaker/contributor, retired mail-order filler and occasional freelance writer. From time to time, she publishes Anecdotal Evidence, a per zine that will some day be considered for the National Book Award, or possibly not. If you want to buy a copy, or desire to write to her for some other reason, email criticgirl@hotmail.com.