When Hayley and the Crushers landed in my inbox of course I was naturally attracted to a band with my namesake. I opened the email curiously, thinking “Please be good!” After all, I couldn’t have the good Hayley name tarnished now could I? But luckily I was not disappointed.
Modern Adult Kicks is a fun, upbeat rock album that is instantly likeable. From the starting track (and single from the album) ‘Taboo’ through to the final track ‘Overexposed’, Modern Adult Kicks is full of energy and enthusiasm. I can imagine seeing them live must be a blast.
The album was in the middle of its creation when Covid hit, causing major disruption as Hayley and her husband/fellow band member Dr Cain had sold the comic book store they owned in order to keep up with their touring schedule, only for all the venues to shut down. The band found themselves as we all did, struggling with this new reality forcing them to ‘grow up’. This maturing meant some of the songs touch on serious topics such as addiction on ‘Calfornia Sober’. However, there is always hope even in the bad times and as Hayley has said, “Growing up doesn’t mean you have to stop dancing.”
I am reminded of old school No Doubt and there is an almost 80s girl group style vibe on the track ‘She Drives’. Hayley and the Crushers are described as ‘poolside glitter punk’ and it’s easy to see why. The whole album is like the auditory version of glitter and dancing, with guitars thrown in for good measure.
If you want to listen to some music that will make you smile, dance and energise you, then Modern Adult Kicks might just be what you’re looking for!
Modern Adult Kicks is out now via Kitten Robot Records
Hayley and the Crushers- Bandcamp/Facebook/Instagram/Twitter
Review by Hayley Foster da Silva
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