Thanks Chris Estey for the kind words. “Just got this slinky, crunchy, very naughty STAG 45 in my box (eek!). It’s a true delight, a great sample of the superb vinyl releases from HockeyTalkter Records. I’m sent back into a summer night of my past, Columbian pot-wafting trailer park yard under glittering coals of stars, sharing a sleeping bag with Janie, whose brother John made out with Rhoda nearby in their own bag. Summer stoned and deep tongue kissing for the first time, and the chorus of this song tickles like anything by the Sweet and stomps like pop Slade. The flip “Runner” has a buzzy Badfinger jog to it (“I’ve been making the same old jokes / living on rum and cokes / get me high!!”); both choruses on this new single are true boss. Thanks boys! Right on”.- Chris Estey
Powerpopaholic Review
Powerpopaholic just posted a great review of the new Stag LP. Check it out!
Stag “Stag”
After an impressive EP last year, Seattle’s Stag presents its new self-titled LP chock full of pretty pop melodies and big hook filled guitar riffs. Similar to Cheap Trick, Big Star, Redd Kross and Guided By Voices it blasts off with “These Times,” a strong anthem for you to get up and take action.
For those who worked in record stores ”Love Her Records” is a great tribute with its Big Star riff. “Don’t Lead With Your Heart” is another melodic gem about another heartbreak, and overall there are no real duds here, although the slower tunes don’t resonate as much. Other standouts include: “Tiffany Rose,” Ides of March” with a cool horn flourish, and my favorite here -”Don’t Call Me” with its classic power pop rhythm.
Wednesday Is The New Friday
Our friends over at There’s Something Hard In There reviewed Stag’s show w/ Swervedriver and included some cool photos. Check it out!
R.A.D. Vinyl Blog
“Fin Records is still in it’s infancy as a label with only a few releases under their belts but they continue to offer up some of the best packaged records. The light purple vinyl is gorgeous and looks great as you pull it out of the hot pink sleeve. Stag is power-pop high energy Rock n’ Roll through and through. They go for catchy hooks and a tight crisp sound that is in large part thanks to the great production by Jack Endino (Nirvana) straight to 2” tape. The pressing is limited to 500 hand numbered copies.”
http://radvinylrecords.tumblr.com/post/10823015856/stag-dont-lead-with-your-heart-7