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Saturdays Of Thunder plays like a chapter of a history book reads. Hank Jones takes a good look at, as well as blatant influences from, seminal, 1980s hardcore bands, especially Minor Threat and Youth Of Today. While it might sound far-fetched to compare a modern-day hardcore band to legendary and defining groups, Hank Jones simply makes their inspiration clear. Aside from some melodic chord progressions and slight rock n' roll tinges, the band does nothing flashy. Power chords, straightforward drumming and monotone shouts -- almost anyone could play this stuff -- characterize each song, and each sounds like a return to hardcore music's years as a young style.
While Saturdays Of Thunder is a fun-filled, energetic listen, it's hard to consider an homage to past bands to be entirely necessary. There's not much new ground explored here. Still, the consistently positive message, tasteful opportunities for singing along and simple music carry a certain charm. This stuff will likely go over really well -- much better than on record -- when played live. The last song, "Pizza Party," should be a crowd favorite, as I imagine most listeners can appreciate shouting, "Pizza! Pizza! Pizza! Pizza party!" to a blazing, hardcore backdrop. The first song, "Get Pissed," bubbles with energy and should certainly incite crowd participation.
Again, Hank Jones is likely more suited for the live realm. Taken for what it is, though, Saturdays Of Thunder is a worthwhile listen. The recording quality could to stand to be a bit chunkier or denser but, overall, this is enough to make people, myself included, crack a grin and let loose.
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