Scream Hello - Smart and Stupid [EP]

**G.Rodriguez** · 02:54 AM

This EP fails to leave an impression as it is a completely forgettable effort from the New Jersey foursome.

It starts with ‘A Few Minutes’ which is mediocre and sees nothing of the suspense or tension often needed in this genre of music to make it work. The song is overlong and one finds oneself waiting for it to end as it gets slower and slower, longer and longer. The next song ‘Breakin’ Shit’ is similarly mediocre although it does manage to fit more into its shorter length. The lyrics, like those which preceded them, are trying too hard to be arty and intellectual. They are in fact nonsensical and impossible to relate to unless one likes to ‘sweep up the ashes of tv screens and diamond barrettes.’

Rrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrr (correct number of r’s) is the best song on the EP although still fails as an overall song. However, in order to not seem too dour, one should point out the lyrics are a lot better than in the other songs (as they are written by Connallon rather than Caverly) and one could connect to the sentiment. Also, it it nice to hear some contrast on an EP where all the songs could more or less blend into one. The song starts stripped down before ending in a more ‘signature’ sound. The last song, ’Vinegar & Baking Soda’ is also forgettable and characterised by the same try-hard lyrics I am coming to know Caverly for.

The band would do to make themselves more distinct, to stand out in the market. It would also do them well to create a song worthy of releasing as a single, or else I can’t find a particular strength of the band. If they choose to write less pretentious lyrics (that fail even at that), they may be able to connect with more people and create a wider fan-base.

For now though, I would not recommend buying this EP - not even as background music. If there's something worse than 'bad', it's 'mediocre'.

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GlockMeAmadeus · Comment Posted on: June 5, 2008, 01:22 AM

"If there's something worse than 'bad', it's 'mediocre'."

So true!

Brutal review, man. I love it

Bearchuck · Comment Posted on: June 6, 2008, 02:08 PM

Awesome, totally "brutal" review!

In case anyone is interested, here are some quotes from 12 reviewers who also thought the music was mediocre. And by "mediocre" I mean really really great...

“I’ve always heard of Scream Hello, but never really sat down to listen to them. Man, I was missing out. A great mix of melodic pop punk with smart lyrics, I’ve been spinning this little teaser for their upcoming full-length, Everything Is Always Still Happening constantly. If you don’t find yourself tapping your feet or even dancing to “Vinegar & Baking Soda,” you’re a goddamn Communist sympathizer who deserves life in jail.” – Latenightwallflower.com

“Scream Hello is a fantastic band, period. Up for some heartfelt, still rockin', indie-pop with a touch of melodic punk rock and extremely well-written melodies? Then look no further.” – Mutinyzine.com

“I miss when there were more bands like this, but Scream Hello is capably filling a hefty void. Check this shit out if you like your indie rocking and tuneful, like what I do.” – Collective-zine.co.uk

“There must be something about New Jersey that seems to spawn these great quartet bands. The better ones, like Scream Hello, are not lacking in humor (always an important element) or in power chord progressions played with enthusiasm.” – Music-reviewer.com

“Strong tracks with a unique flavour. Not the easiest to describe so I recommend you go take a listen, chances are you'll be impressed.” – Bombshellzine.com

“My only qualm with “Smart & Stupid” is that its only four songs and it left me wanting more. “ - Getoveryourselfbklyn.com

“They have taken all these different influences and tossed them into a blender (yes, it DOES blend!) and have come up with a very unique sound, one that I hope to explore further once their full-length comes out this summer.” – Lucky13zine.com

“If their upcoming full length sounds anything like this, we are all in for a treat.” – Manual Dexterity Zine

“Scream Hello, despite not being a band that I'd gush about to friends, have delivered a rather high caliber EP with Smart & Stupid. It manages to be simultaneously infectious, energetic and sincere as it wears countless different influences out on its sleeve all the while sounding refreshingly new.” – Thepunksite.com

“We cynical old rockers want to hate it for its punchy emo-tinged feel-good pop punk, but darn it if it isn't good!” – Readjunk.com

“As bands like The Hold Steady consistently prove, making good music isn’t always about displaying the farthest stretches of one’s technical prowess. It’s about telling a great story, crafting a memorable hook, having fun with your music, and inviting your fans along with you to share in that fun. And that’s exactly what the Jersey boys in Scream Hello have done with their Smart & Stupid EP, in that they’ve offered up four unrelenting songs that are chock full of emo heart, indie wit, and punk tempo.” – Dryvetymeonlyne.com

“SH seem to manage to keep their integrity intact with some gritty, sing along, pacey rock tracks.” – Subba-Cultcha.com

G.Rodriguez · Comment Posted on: June 7, 2008, 11:47 AM

Hmm.... maybe someone slipped the wrong disc into the sleeve as that definately wasn't what I was hearing.

"Gritty"? Did this same person think Sesame Street was gritty?

Still, if the band have that many fans, good luck to them. I can't blame them for making what 'the people' want. I'm clearly out of touch. My bad.

altsounds · Comment Posted on: October 1, 2008, 02:51 AM

I'm clearly out of touch. My bad.

Don't apologize for your opinions. The person that posted is blatantly from the band. That's why there is so much OK and rubbish music out there cause people are too scared to do as you did and say what they feel. Stand by your guns. I have band members and producers crying to me over my opinions too but if that's what I think there ain't no changing it.

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> Home > Reviews | Scream Hello - Smart and Stupid [EP]

Scream Hello - Smart and Stupid [EP]

Red Leader Records

June 4, 2008, 08:45 PM

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