1997’s Dig Me Out, chock full of timeless, powerful songs, prompted the world to put the entire future of indie rock on their shoulders. Perhaps that was an unfair burden on the trio, but can’t help be disappointed by the The Hot Rock. There is an effort at progression in that the intertwining guitar leads are more complex, as are some of the vocal arrangements and interplay. Fans of the likes of Fugazi, Polvo and Unwound will appreciate the effort. However, the new album is missing the irresistably catchy hooks and heart-wrenching anthems like previous albums’ “Good Things,” “One More Hour” and “Dance Song ’97.”
While the more abstract instrumental work can reward deep listening for some, others might lose interest. The most successful, or at least interesting songs are the slow ones, like the melodic “Get Up” and the loping melodica-tinged “A Quarter To Three,” and the spare and lovely “The Size Of Our Love,” which recalls the Raincoats when they started experimenting with different instruments, just before they began to disintegrate. Let’s hope the same thing doesn’t happen to our favorite Olympia rockers. They have sealed their reputation of punk rock authenticity and artistic adventurous. But an even more interesting move might be to put it all on the line and be the rock stars they’re meant to be.
April 2, 2026
Fester’s Lucky 13: 1986
February 27, 2026
Fester’s Lucky 13: 1976
