Vacant Churches

As I Fall From Grace

An old school punk sound, attacking "poser fucks that have no clue"

Record Label: Vinehell
Release Year: 2006
Vacant Churches Homepage

Do you like your punk old school? Sure you do. Let's give a warm welcome to Mark, Jon, Heather, Aaron, and Melody, all of whom comprise the band Vacant Churches, a group whose vein lies in the same realm as Siouxsie and the Banshees, 45 Grave, and even the Avengers. Members in this group come from other bands: Ill-blooded, Acme Inc., The Rukus-SJ, Frontline, and The Lemon Test. The album begins with a radio flipping around while a constant chant of "The Power of Christ compels you." Just when we think madness is about to ensue, track 2, an instrumental song lasting all of 42 seconds, cushions us for the blow. Enter stage right: the first song with vocals, "Sorry" begins. Throwback garage punk guitar lies on a bed of keys as the tune floats above us amongst the flying buttresses of elegantly constructed cathedrals. The rest of the album keeps up a similar pace with Melody singing of false hope, unfulfilled dreams, and rising out of pity and sorrow. It's Female-fronted punk with attitude. Album is currently available for purchase at Streelight Records (in San Jose) and through Vinehell's webstore at www.vinehellstore.com

Review By Andy Smyth