Jerkwater

by Lex Marburger

Finally, a band that can experiment with chords, using them as the hooks needed to draw in a listener. Raw with a smile, as I listened to their self-titled tape, Jerkwater took me down the Mass Pike at 70 mph, ducking around cars, laughing and thinking about the SST bands I used to listen to. The chords dance around, and anyone with basic harmony could tell you that they’re using “wrong” chords in the “wrong” order, but just tell them to fuck off and go back to Berklee.

The odd progressions keep your interest high, and the dissonance takes it to the next level, whereas if Jerkwater had kept to what’s “right,” they would have lost my attention after one song. They’re also not afraid to use the instrumental medium and let the music speak for itself. Jerkwater can express emotions and feelings non-verbally. Words would just get in the way. But there are times when vocals are needed, and Jerkwater doesn’t shy away from supplying them. Untrained and honest, the words don’t quite make it through, but their intent is certainly clear. The bass and drums form a solid foundation, with rhythmic flurries tastefully included in just the right places. And I got a free sticker from them.