Album Review: Russian Girlfriends – In the Parlance of Our Times

Russian Girlfriends formed five years ago from former members of the unlikely combination of from Koffin Kats, Adam Hooks And His Hang-ups, Glitter Dick, Heathen, Novembers Doom, and Forbidden, they swiftly self released their debut album, All Around,, which was subsequently repressed by Orange Whip Records and Gunner Records. Since that time the band has been criss crossing the US on tour, but other than a smattering of Split EP’s they have been relatively quiet on the recording front, but now they’re back on a new label with their new album, In the Parlance of Our Times, that will be released on the 21st June via A-F Records.

From the short sharp hit of Coke that kicks off In the Parlance of Our Times Russian Girlfirends don’t look back, as with All Around this is brutal punk rock infused with a shot off hardcore ferocity. If that was the end of the story this might be the end of the review, all would be well but that could be the description of any number of punk bands, but there’s so much more to Russian Girlfriends than that. The band’s diverse origins appear to have served them well, across the album are unexpected influences and elements including touches of heartland rock, rock ‘n roll and occasional technical rock flourishes that are intertwined with the album’s punk core, and it’s this that makes In the Parlance of Our Times such an addictive album.

In the Parlance of Our Times is a stunning album of original punk rock that doesn’t do things by the numbers, each and every track has it’s own distinct character and you find yourself hooked back into the album as each new hit digs it’s claws into you, with their sophomore album Russian Girlfriends have surpassed their debut release. In the Parlance of Our Times fits in perfectly with A-F Records diverse and inclusive roster as Russian Girlfriends have delivered an album that is passionate, provocative, political and bordering on perfection.

In The Parlance Of Our Times can be pre-ordered phsyically via A-F Records here and digitally via Bandcamp here.

Russian Girlfriends can be found on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and YouTube