Album Reviews
Swami John Reis of Rocket From The Crypt, Hot Snakes, Drive Like Jehu, Night Marchers and a zillion other projects, is back with yet another band, Swami & The Bed Of Nails. Rounded out by drummers Jason Koukounis (Hot Snakes, Night Marchers) and Richard Larson, bassist Tommy Kitsos (of Night Marchers and a Hot Snakes fill-in), and second guitarist Mark Murino (Radio Wendy, Dirty Sweet), Swami & The Bed Of Nails grew out of the final Hot Snakes writing sessions in 2023, before Rick Froberg’s untimely death. ‘All Of This Awaits You…’ also features contributions from Pinback’s Rob Crow (who also plays in PLOSIVS with Reis), Ceremony’s Anthony Anzaldo, and Mrs. Magician’s Jacob Turnbloom.
The nine songs that make up ‘All Of This Awaits You…’ are blasts of unadulterated joy that are high on energy and life. Nothing on here will come as much of a surprise if you are familiar with Reis’ past work. There are parts that will remind you of Night Marchers, the melodic hooks bring back memories of Rocket From The Crypt’s finest moments and the near relentless drive behind all of the songs are pure Hot Snakes. Throw in an organ and plenty of piano and the party is complete. If you are looking for a fun soundtrack to your summer, then this is it.
All Of This Awaits You track listing:
- How Are You Peeling?
- Harbor Freight
- Ketchup, Mustard and Relish
- Teen Hate
- Privacy
- Lost In Bermondsey
- Shock And Awe
- Don't Wait
- Beware The Halo
Lacking the talent to actually play in a band, Tom decided he would write about bands instead. Turns out his writing skills are mediocre at best as well.
