The Peacocks – Don’t Ask

Swiss rockabilly-influenced punk rockers The Peacocks have been rocking the European upright-bass scene for over twenty years now and serves as a perfect example of how divisive geography can be.  Despite my lifelong love of ‘billy’ related genres I’ve never been presented with the opportunity to become acquainted with the Winterthur trio.  For whatever reason, my first exposure comes with their seventh full length, Don’t Ask.  The label’s current media publicists actually recommended that I check these guys out above a slew of better-known offerings sharing the same release window, and thanks to his not so gentle nudge, I’m now a believer.

As most of you are likely already aware, The Peacocks play a rough, melodic brand of punk rock rooted heavily in vintage rock n’ roll rhythms.  Lead vocalist Hasu Langhart commands a rusty set of pipes, each word weathered from a lifetime of late night boozing, fitting the part like a long list of likened acts (ie…).  Opener “Need A Break” matches Langhart’s presence with an overview of distorted guitars, stylish 50’s inspired guitar garnishes, and a smooth, near-do-wop chorus of vocal supports (whoahs, echoes, and everything else that solid punk rock has come to know).  Rough without sounding amateurish, and benefiting from the wisdom of age, it’s immediately clear just how well established The Peacocks have become over their lengthy career.

A plethora of minor tweaks make Don’t Ask authentic from start to finish, most tracks teeming with distinct personality.  “Don’t Pretend To Care When You Don’t Care” finds both tunefulness with a touch of country twang, “Re-Hash Boogie” pulls listeners onto a dance floor from decades past (think Stray Cats), while “The Girl’s In Trouble And The Boy’s In Panic” swing open with a robotic chant you’d expect to hear on Green Day’s quirky electronic side project The Network.  Throw all this uniqueness alongside a group that knows how to employ an upright bass without milking its novelty, and you’ve got one sure to please dose of punk rock.

Don’t Ask exemplifies why The Peacocks have been going strong for over two decades.  A combination of tuneful rock n’ roll and undeniably infectious rhythms mean Don’t Ask contains nary a misstep, and many a reason to keep The Peacocks spinning.  If punkabilly is your thing, then you’re probably already listening; if not then it’s about time to give The Peacocks your ear and change that regrettable faux pas.