By Chandra Johnson
Lately, it seems that there is a void in the music industry for bands who label themselves rock and roll, unless you count those numerous 80s hair-metal Van Halen cover bands. Not to do those hell raisers a disservice, but there haven’t been many bands to satisfy those head bangers lust, that is until Peanut Butter Lovesicle came along.
Don’t let the band’s name throw you off because this trio, who all just so happen to be related, pack a punch in their EP, Dirty Pride, released last year. Doing double duty, drummer Timmy Miller also provides vocals which are shown off in their music video for ‘Black Eyed Blues.’ You may recognize one of the stars in the video as it features Gossip Girl bad boy, Ed Westwick, so it was no coincidence that the track was featured on an episode in season five of the hit series. Brothers Mike D’Arc (bass/vocals) and Jake D’Arc (guitar) round out this mass of psychedelic/bluesy rock and roll.
The title song, ‘Dirty Pride,’ starts out with a heavy guitar and bass line that seems eerily reminiscent of the famous Zeppelin song, ‘Black Dog.’ Whether or not it was inspired by the famous rock band, there are definite similarities, though Peanut Butter Lovesicle makes their gritty, garage band sound modern with the help of Miller’s slow annunciation.
It’s hard not to become mesmerized by the sex appeal oozing from this band with each chord that’s strummed, and their bad ass quality doesn’t hurt either. The last song on the EP, ‘Luther,’ certainly has a jam-bandish vibe to it that is hard not to sway back and forth to, while thrashing one’s hair.
Originally from Brooklyn, Peanut Butter Lovesicle has acquired quite a following in London after touring there sporadically throughout last year. It’ll only be a matter of time before these gents take over rest of the world.
Speaking of London, Secret Sound Shop readers in the UK can catch PBL on tour next month:
Feb 15, Camden Barfly, London
Feb 20, Paper Dress, LondonFeb 26, Notting Hill Arts Club, London
Secret Sound Shop 
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