Before I ever listened to Stewart I read a short discussion with singer/songwriter Andrea Tarka regarding the title of their new album, Kicks. When asked about the title she says, “Kicks can mean having a great time. You can kick someone, or something. You can relax and just kick it. Or kicks can refer to excitement, a ball game, or shoes. Anything really.” This consciousness of the play of language instantly excited me to discover how that play of language was present on the album.
I was not disappointed once I listened to the album. Along with subtle references to early punk songs and literary giants, the songs on Kicks run the same gambit as the connotations of the word. Stewart has found a unique balance of fierce guitars, hard drum beats, and super catchy vocals. Each track on this album from the super catchy “Dance with Me” to the somber “Gone” to the punkier “Same to You” all assert their claim to be present on the record. Each track is allowed to breath and come into its own, and in turn, creates a very natural yet diverse album.
This is an album that can pick you up from a dull mood, and make its way somewhere deep inside your body until you are singing along. Or it provides the perfect outlet for a good mood when you can’t sit still. Kicks will be released on June 15th and if you just can’t wait, you can download "Dance with Me" here or catch them this Saturday June 12th at Arlene’s Grocery in NYC.
