Classics of Love – “World of the Known” (Art of the Underground, 2010)
by Dave Sharp on Apr 11th, 2011
Classics of Love - "World of the Known" (Art of the Underground, 2010)
Whether he’s revolutionizing ska/punk, creating of-the-era art, or bringing some of the best punk musicians together in many of the genre’s “super groups,” Jesse Michaels always finds new ways to bring 924 Gilman Street into our lives.
It was a 2008 solo tour with Fifteen’s Jeff Ott that caught the attention of Asian Man Records’ Mike Park and spurred the creation of Classics of Love. In 2009 the band, which is a fusion of Michaels’ solo work backed by members of Hard Girls, released an exclusive two-song EP as part of Art of the Underground’s Singles Series.
“World of the Known,” especially being on vinyl, sounds 10 years older than it’s actual release. It’s a classic hardcore punk tune with driving drums and a raspier, harder Jesse Michaels.
“Line Through Your Name” is the pillar of this album. Its pops with more pickup and demonstrates more versatility of Michaels’ vocals. Maybe it’s just the lyrics, but its draws a strong resemblance to Operation Ivy’s “Take Warning” and/or “Officer.”
There’s nothing more grown-up about this album, but the sound is all Classics of Love’s own. Start with side B and you’ll be hooked.
Followers of punk rock’s evolution need this for its six-degrees-to-everyone notability, but the music’s appreciators need it more for its classic appeal.