The fact that the Wombats haven’t yet become a hugely successful band is a persistent puzzlement for me. I’ve been patient! Ever since the first version of “Backfire at the Disco” I’ve bided my time, waiting for stateside tour dates and a favorable Pitchfork review. I thought that a much-touted SXSW showcase would do it, but no — I’m still waiting. In the meantime the band has released a number of increasingly overproduced (but still catchy!) singles, and seems to be prepping a new LP.
They also signed with Roadrunner Records, whose artists page is hilarious enough that you really ought to visit it. It’s filled with doughy, dour-looking gentleman who front bands with names like Dragonforce and DevilDriver and Nickelback, and who never, ever smile. It is probably the worst collection of bands you’ve ever seen — except for that one trio of little British fellas, who write catchy pop songs that are smart and fun and pretty much everything you’d want from a cheeky Liverpudlian trio. Bah! Anyway, if you can find this album at a non-exorbitant price, you should really think about getting it.
Your assessment of the Roadrunner roster neglects to mention Opeth, who kick ass.
Hey, don’t be knocking DragonForce. They’re awesome (and don’t take themselves anywhere near as seriously as their photo makes it seem).