Release Date: 12/10/09Can be heard at: www.myspace.com/theraveonettes
The Raveonettes are one of those bands who have often featured on highly tipped lists, lauded by various elements of the music press, but have largely failed to progress beyond the second division of indiedom.
Based on the evidence of this double A-side single, it pretty easy to see why. Both songs deliver the same simple, fuzzy pop in the vein of the more woebegone end of the Jesus and Mary Chain back catalogue that Raveonettes fans will be accustomed to, but neither ‘Last Dance’ or ‘Bang!’ (decorated with a laughably underserved exclamation mark) ever move out of a lethargic, uninspiring second gear.
Based on the evidence of this double A-side single, it pretty easy to see why. Both songs deliver the same simple, fuzzy pop in the vein of the more woebegone end of the Jesus and Mary Chain back catalogue that Raveonettes fans will be accustomed to, but neither ‘Last Dance’ or ‘Bang!’ (decorated with a laughably underserved exclamation mark) ever move out of a lethargic, uninspiring second gear.
Whereas earlier efforts from the Raveonettes often had darker undertones, nothing of the like is present here. Both tracks are syrupy to the point of irritation, with jaded lyrics – such as “if this is the last dance then save it for me baby” – delivered in the standard Scandinavian-tinged English. The melodies may be sweet but are completely predictable and, despite gratuitous repetition, ultimately (or mercifully) forgettable. In short, this effort is probably best summed up by guitarist/vocalist Sune Rose Wagner – according to him this single finds the Raveonettes “not giving a shit”. Be warned: it shows.
Rating: 1.5/5
