HolySexyBastards

HolySexyBastards

Rock & roll remains the universal language, so it's no great shock that Venezuelan power trio HolySexyBastards performs in perfect English. With punk, garage rock, and power pop as key ingredients in the band's cake mix, the 14 tracks on its debut platter come short, sharp, and shocked. The hot 'n' horny "Perfect Ten" blows the door open with screams of lust and distortion, but the melodious "Kiss Your Friend," "Nice to Be a Girl," and "Well-Being" blast more sweetly (if loudly). The grinding "Ill" and wordless "Red Light" bring blues into the equation, if only as a shadow. Completing its business in a mere 35 minutes keeps the hooks dominating HolySexyBastards' Black Stripes schtick from going rancid and the album a satisfying snack. (12mid, the Jr.)