Classics of Love – S/T
Posted on 20th Feb 12 by Ali Ganley | 
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While the name Jesse Michaels will always be associated with Operation Ivy, it’s fair to say that this legendary figure has carved a new musical path for himself, paving the way for a newer, brighter future for punk, reckons Ali Ganley.
One disadvantage of having such a successful past is that many of Michael’s offerings are compared to his previous work and unfortunately, that’s unavoidable. The conclusion however, is beyond positive. The only similarities between the Classics of Love first full length, Self-Titled album and past Op Ivy material, is the way in which Jesse delivers his hard-hitting lyrics. What’s truly amazing is that today, almost 25 years after Jesse first burst onto the scene, he has still managed to retain that signature raw, throaty voice that we’ve all come to love.
But this is no longer just about him. Classics of Love, whose members; Max Feshbach, Morgan Herrell and Mike Huguenor had previously played with ‘Hard Girls’, have gelled together brilliantly since first being introduced to each other by the brilliant Mike Park. Their latest release, in my opinion, is a work of art and may genuinely be the one thing the industry needs to revolutionize music once again.
The album, which was released on Asian Man Records on February 14th, is full of 1-2 minute fierce and powerful songs that convey the bands dissatisfaction with the political system in America. The lyrics almost seem to be pleading for social justice, while the energetic music complements each word perfectly. The track ‘Dissolve’ sounds fast and vicious, and contains lines such as: “Bound by private tyrannies, the wealthy own the state.” This is a great example of the power behind the edgy music and lyrics.
Certain songs stood out when I first listened to this album. The second track ‘Castle in the Sky’, has a slight reggae feel to it which manages to make punk sound upbeat. Other songs such as ‘Would-Be Kings’ seem quite anthem-esque and will presumably sound amazing when played live. My favourite song however was ‘Gun Show’, which was just fun to listen to, as members of the band echoed Jesse’s words during the chorus.
Though this album seems majorly politically driven, the passion in Jesse’s blunt lyrics shines through. And this, coupled with the 80’s inspired, heavy yet melodic punk music instantly transports every listener right back to their punk and ska roots.
The Classics of Love have really outdone themselves and have totally achieved what seems to be their main aims-raising awareness about injustice in the world and expressing their own thoughts and opinions on the way things are run these days, while giving two fingers to the men in charge.
Nicely done lads!
Drop-d Rating: 10/10
Tags: Asian Man Records, Classics of Love, Mike Park, Operation Ivy, punk, ska
Awesome album from start to finish!