Barkinghaus by The Sundresses

The American band you knew had to exist, does! The Sundresses latest, Barkinghaus, is a hurricane of truth for the 21st Century... the story of a collapsing and dismantled United States of America, from the predictable events of 9/11, toward the dark, broke future you know... today! Where we are ruled by bishops and constables as we squabble for space on crumbling roads in our crappy little cars.

Unlike their last record, The Only Tourist in Town, Barkinghaus was originally planned for release by a real label. But after a torrent of bad ideas, lame offers, and general cluelessness among potential suitors, the band decided to go it alone. Again.

The music and ideas matter. So does timing. The band's All Night Party label was a way to ensure that records hit stores in 2008, with the band's original song titles, lyrics, and artwork (yes, all of these choices were questioned!). The record's powerful, timely call to arms comes through loud and clear.

Barkinghaus is protest and revelry. It's shame, hope, humor and glory. It's spiteful. It's revealing. It's lyrical prophesizing to guitar, bass, drums and trombone. It's Blues, Bluegrass, Punk, Garage Rock and/or Roll. - Shawn Abnoxious/CityBeat Cover Story 9/17/08

It sounds like a smoky bar teeming with stiff drinks and mustache-twirling regulars. The jukebox would be full of swampy blues, jazz and a Murder Hymn - Rich Shivener/CinWeekly 9/17/08