W.S. Walcott Medicine Show

08. The Squirms – The Squirms (Rad City Records)

The Squirms (The Sqirms) – In a year when I ended up with numerous extremely new and different names on my year end list, The Squirms and their self titled debut LP has to be right at the top of my “off the beaten path” surprises.  Sometimes it pays to have friends all over the country to turn one on to local bands that would never get your attention otherwise, so in this case, thanks Sean.  Anyhow, The Squirms are a classic power pop band straight out of the tried and true mold of late 70’s, early 80’s bands like The Records, The Rubinoos, etc.  The Squirms LP is pure unadulterated jangly rock and roll, highlighted by crunchy guitars, driving bass and harmonious vocals all of which will have you tapping those toes and bouncing in your chair, that is if you’re still sitting down while listening and not up and about dancing your face off. (NOTE: Oddly enough, this LP is not available on Bandcamp, something which really ought to be rectified).