The Hottness "Stay Classy"

Wow, I wholly expected to hate this record (I'm starting to realize that I say that a lot). The Hottness? Is that not one of the worst band names you've ever heard? It sounds like real Rise Records shit to me. Yuck.

But Stay Classy is an enjoyable record, making the best of big, bold, sometimes Southern-sounding guitar riffs, a combination of forceful screaming and surprisingly (for this genre) masculine singing, and driving, meaty drumming. Everything on the album just sounds big and energetic, a stark contrast to the whiny, weak stylings of the bands with which The Hottness probably shares the stage. There's more of a gruff, alternative rock slant to their sound and, as much as I can't stand that label, it speaks to Stay Classy's character. Nothing here is particularly new, but it's all entertaining and crafty in a big way.

Like the similar I Am Hollywood-era He Is Legend and Maylene and the Sons of Disaster, The Hottness showcases natural songwriting tact, tinges of the South and plenty of energy on Stay Classy. The record isn't winning any awards from me, but I've spent more time listening to it than most everything else in my collection over the past couple weeks -- a pleasant surprise.

The Hottness - Blue Eyed

You can nab a copy of the full length here.