I first became aware of Fred Schreck’s remarkable talents with the release of the debut (and thus far, only) album from the all-star band Satellite Paradiso. That album featured John Ashton of the Psychedelic Furs along with other big names based out of the Northeast and New England. I was amazed at how Fred’s vocal affectations seemed to wrap around the words in various guises and musical styles. Further research on my part revealed this was no fluke – his past works with The Ancients and Crush more than lived up to expectations. If Joey Ramone was a fan back in the 90’s, who can argue with that?
Leveler is the third album by The Ancients – in the works for many years. What began as a solo project by Fred in Nashville, TN quickly became a collaborative effort as he roped in old cohorts to assist with a track here and there. The album starts off with the title track – a statement of intent. Power pop with just the right amount of snotty vocals. Dead Boys by way of Nashville by way of a New York City past. I don’t know if that makes sense, but I like it quite a bit. Blue Seventeen was the 1st single off the album and a perfect introduction to the album. There’s a smoldering beauty in the vocals that leaves the listener wanting more. There’s a Bowie vibe that is alluring. The chorus absolutely explodes out of the speakers (or out of my hearing aids turned Bluetooth headphones, to be more accurate). Tanto is my favorite song on the album. There’s a lightness in the instrumental backing that allows Fred’s vocals to shine. Blow is a post punk workout that is a sonic masterpiece. Shades of Interpol, but shades of The Chameleons too – a perfect synthesis of post punk eras. It makes for quite an exciting listen. You can imagine this playing in a basement club in the city with strobe lights moving in tune with the music. The Eastern Sky closes the record on a high note. This is pure Bowie, I just love it so much. Wow! What an epic closing track!
The Ancients have delivered a stunning album #3. It works as composite of various New York City sounds and vibes – which makes it an invigorating album to listen to. I am Looking forward to what comes next. You can pick up the album via the band’s Bandcamp site. This is a band worth supporting!
Verdict: Like a Fine Wine
For Fans of: David Bowie, The Smiths, The Jam, Television, Johnny Thunders
Tracks:
- Leveler
- Blue Seventeen
- Distant Cold Beauty
- Light Exchange
- Tanto
- Nihilist
- Blow
- Boom Tap
- The Eastern Sky