Somehow, I have the feeling that there are many bands lately that have existed for a maximum of a handful of years and are made up of well-known members from other existing and no longer existing bands. This is probably a snapshot that does not reflect reality. Of course, many musicians who have passed thirty have played in other bands before. Why did I come to this thought? I came to this thought because of FAKE NAMES.
FAKE NAMES is a band that released its first album in 2020 and now has its second one out. The band consists of members who have played in Minor Threat, Refused, and Fugazi, among others.
One would think it’s a volatile mix.
Quite the opposite is true for the music.
FAKE NAMES present ten songs on “Expendables” that come across as very pleasing in mid-tempo and showcase influences from '77 punk, beat, scratchy Brit pop, and indie. A mix that was not expected from the men who used to make such hard music, and yet... it is consistently enjoyable to listen to the album.
The five seasoned musicians know what they are doing, and thus the ten songs, which come out of the speakers in a pleasing and radio-friendly manner, possess a lot of melody and bite. It is not the overtly biting, hard sound that characterized the music of Minor Threat, for example. Rather, it is the sound of seasoned, experienced men showing what they can do. There is undoubtedly a sense for melodies, and the fact that things can be a bit calmer with age is certainly no shame.
Like many musicians who have crossed the 40 mark, some stop because they can no longer manage to build something substantial for various reasons.
FAKE NAMES still have the strength to put something on its feet, and there are rumors that the band may come to Europe this year. Here, I am sure they will be received appropriately, and when they play the ten songs from this album live, they will surely receive thanks and applause.
With this album, FAKE NAMES have created a little gem (not only) for the older generation.
