Morningwood: Pedro Yanowitz (vocals, bass guitar); Tempest Chantal Claret (vocals).
Additional personnel: Richard Steel (vocals, guitar); Jonny Cragg, Japa Keenon (vocals).
Recording information: RAK Studios, London, England (2005); Strongroom, London, England.
All tracks have been digitally mastered using 24-bit technology.
Infectiously catchy and unapologetically rocked-out, Morningwood's self-titled debut announces the New York City band's arrival with attitude and energy. Helmed by veteran producer Gil Norton, the album sparkles with a glammy sheen, and boasts fierce guitar riffs, bouncy bass lines, and airtight rhythms. Although the band sports musicians that have played in the Wallflowers and Cibo Matto, the real star of Morningwood is singer Chantal Claret, who can both coo like Hilary Duff and snarl like Joan Jett. The sugary-sweet "Nth Degree," the libidinous "Take Off Your Clothes," and the sassy "New York Girls" are just a few highlights of this giddy, revved-up coming-out party.
What the critics say...
Spin (p.90) - "[Gil Norton] mercilessly compresses the guitars into a buzz that's practically an ironic commentary on the verb to rock..." -- Grade: B-
Entertainment Weekly (p.71) - "[Claret] may account for a good chunk of its manic, sexed-up energy." - Grade: B
