Emerging from their seedy underground bunker in Stockholm, the former Nancy Ray Gun have resurfaced into a new world under the guise of Calvin Decline.
Amid an upsurge of garage bands, Calvin Decline are one of the few groups who aren’t afraid to keep their raw edge. Their debut single, Start A Fire, is a hard-hitting song that oozes energy and attitude.
There is no magical arrangement to Start A Fire. Opening with a steely guitar riff that grabs your attention, it’s a simple punk track that after a few listens, leads to a nasty case of stuck-tune syndrome. A fat, thumping bass line builds the momentum of the verse that by the time the chorus kicks in, the whole song descends into a punky, breakneck tempo with layers of trashy guitars and a barrage of heavy drums. The vocal delivery adds an icy tone that’s almost reminiscent of Howard Devoto (Magazine), leaving a deep impression and creating a moody, atmospheric tone.
Calvin Decline have been successful in replicating that raw rock ‘n’ roll sound without having to try too hard. Their debut, Start A Fire, is a catchy song that not only sounds like a respectful tribute to some of the great punk bands but is crammed full of their contagious energy and spirit.