Sometimes the key to success is simplicity. A catchy guitar riff, clear vocals, a memorable and snappy chorus, coupled with a driving bass line and thumping drums. It could be a magic formula for a perfect rock song that unquestionably is going to get people out of their seats and jumping around. ‘Cuffed and Collared’ from Adelaide band Bad//Dreems has all of this and more.

The track sounds reminiscent of bands like The Hold Steady et al. but, oddly enough, more striking than sounding like their contemporaries is that the main guitar riff has an uncanny similarity to ‘Last Train to Clarksville’ by The Monkees. Though let this be said: this is no bad thing.

The second track on the double A side, ‘Dumb Idea’, has all the pounding drums and bass you could ever need. Again, in a rather complicated musical world, where everybody seems to be experimenting with all manner of bells and whistles, it’s refreshing to hear something so uncomplicated. So, if you want the perfect track to jump around and sing along to as we move in to the festival season, this is most definitely it.

Bad//Dreems are crossing the globe for a UK tour next month, including a date at The Great Escape Festival, find out more here.

 

Dan Smith

@medansmith