Gigolo Aunts

Flippin Out (RCA)
by Scott Hefflon

“When it came time to pick a label, RCA really understood and respected what we wanted to do,” simplified Steve during a phone interview from England. Inspiring words for other alternative power pop bands still gigging endlessly in Boston. There was no re-recording due to corporate suggestions; the release was scooped hook, line, and sinker exactly as the band wished it. One important aspect of the arraignment was that Dave still be able to work on his own label, Somerville Records, which currently boasts The Flying Nuns, Jack Drag, The Jigsaws, and Jennifer Trynin.

Such down to Earth, support your friends and roots philosophy is obvious after only a moment or two of conversation or, Gasp!, actually listening to their lyrics. “Most of the songs are just based on our observations of people, and things we write in different moods and, well, y’know, Life.” I guess it was kinda a typically stupid question, sorry. When I chided him that understanding the song by song messages would be easier if they’d print lyric sheets, he quipped, “We could also print the guitar charts, would that help?”

To point out all the ear-snagging hooks on Flippin’ Out would be like blindly rummaging about a tacklebox, speared at every move. When we discussed the importance of strong melody and the longevity of well-written tunes, I got the distinct impression they wish to transcend the trends and write lasting classic rock. Sounds like a peachy idea until Chuck E. Cheese thinks your current single would make a nifty theme song or you go to the mall to get gum and hear an instrumentally castrated version of a song you poured your guts into. When it came to the strength of pop, Steve didn’t bat an eye, responding, “I think a lot of the pop bands we’ve played with rock just as hard as Soundgarden or Pantera. Our difference is off-stage. The closest we come to trashing hotel rooms is when we don’t make the bed.”

Nice guys (tidy, too) and good music. ‘Nuff said.