If you're in the wrong mood you could easily miss what a great song Low Happening is. There's something jarringly primal about the Howling Bells that could make you switch off almost instantly. Maybe it's the basic tribal drumming that calls to mind Mo Tucker, or perhaps it's the guitars strummed like their owners have been taught to play in a day (although certainly not in any way that would be familiar to Bert Weedon). If these things could irk you, all is not lost.
For all of this seemingly lo-fi approach, Low Happening is full of attitude. Vocalist Juanita Stein may well sound like butter wouldn't melt in her mouth, but when she delivers lines like; "You used me like I used you, My love shot right through you," you just know she's got a healthy level of arrogance.
If you're currently wondering why it is that we need yet another Blondie best of, then you should seek out the Howling Bells. They're primal and they've got an unusually keen ear for a great tune. The Howling Bells might just be starting to happen.
share with:
