New year, new genre as RONKER is set to release their second studio album.
While RONKER aren’t the first to play speednoise, they are the first to refer to it as such. But what is speednoise? You don’t have to ask. It’s speedy and noisy – which is how I would describe Respect The Hustle, I Won’t Be Your Dog Forever. Think punk but SCREAMING instead of shouting. Angry, societal discourse. Distorted sound. Quick, repetitive points. It’s somewhat gothic, with a dramatic flair in places, like if Motionless in White tried being Rage Against the Machine.
The album didn’t immediately pull me in. No Sweat was the hook for me, that was the turning point. Possibly because that’s where I drew in the punk comparison, so that’s where it became familiar. Snuff and Using Eyes were the others to stand out to me. Clearly, this is due to the change of pace and emotion that’s portrayed. Less angry, more… disappointed.
Though, my second listen allowed me to appreciate it more. Maybe it was a bit too new, too soon. It is an alright album, though. Not perfect. As a second album, it’s got to room to be a bit messy. When I think of my favourites, they don’t find their footing until albums 3…4… maybe more! So, I have hope for RONKER.
January 30, Respect The Hustle, I Won’t Be Your Dog Forever is yours to hear. If you like it, RONKER will be coming to the UK in April. Go find them!
