Album review: THE SIDESHOWS – S/t

THE SIDESHOWS

Europea Phonographic [Release date 10.04.26]

The Sideshows is the new project formed by former Hanoi Rocks, New York Dolls, Joan Jett & The Blackhearts and currently Michael Monroe Band bassist Sami Yaffa alongside songwriter Rich Ragany (Role Models, Rich Ragany & The Digressions) and drummer Simon Maxwell (Yo-Yos, The Loyalties, Role Models), and the band are about to release their debut album of the same name.

Recorded in Yaffa’s Mallorcan Red Mud Studios and produced by himself and Ragany, the album will appeal to anyone who enjoys a good bit of rock n roll, punk power pop with a singalong chorus, think any of the bands above or the likes of Dogs D’Amour and you’ll get an idea of what you can look forward to here. Consistent throughout, the album’s earlier singles “Brand New” and “The Start” had me eagerly awaiting this release, the former having more of a punk edge with the latter has a more reflective feel that is also shown in “This Could Be Everything”.

“Rock and Roll Owes Me an Apology” is a great song title, and the track itself does not disappoint. “We’re Such a Shame” is a great rock n roll song and I would love to hear both this and “Not Sorry” sung by Michael Monroe at some point. Another highlight is “Our Love In The Shadows” and the rest of the album is completed by ear friendly punk laced power pop such as “Smoke Show”, “I Feel It” and “Say Goodbye On A Night Like This”.

“The Sideshows” is a great introduction to a band that you should keep an eye (and an ear) on, and I am very much looking forward to hearing these songs played live. ****

Review by Nikk Gunns


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