From the globally renowned legends who brought us the likes of Bad Reputation and I Love Rock N’ Roll, introducing their first original project since 2013’s Unvarnished – hall of famers Joan Jett & The Blackhearts launch the brilliantly anthemic EP MINDSETS.
Blending classic punk and timeless rock tones for a refreshing hit of both nostalgia and now, the six-track EP MINDSETS bursts into life with the gritty riff-work, distortion and unmistakable Joan Jett rasp of If You’re Blue. All at once we get a spacious, organic punk-rock set-up and a melodic chorus of harmonized, catchy vocals threading things together.
What’s great about this track is its clear sense of brightness, optimism and unity – it’s a celebration of self-expression, but it also encourages a sense of togetherness in times of struggle, and that anthemic warmth makes it an addictively uplifting opener.
Far from confined to a single sound, Whiskey Goes Good rightfully shifts the mood towards an Americana swagger that’s mellow and acoustic – laying bare the raw talent of Joan Jett & The Blackhearts in a shoulder-swaying, intimate fashion.
The fast pace of punk-rock returns with those paired vocals guiding us through an energetic Shooting Into Space, no doubt another crowd-pleaser at live shows, followed by the equally infectious Rear View Mirror – a touch of imagery and story that grips in a fresh way.
For Before The Dawn, inspiration and possibility return to light up the room, with a mellow groove and another simple yet satisfying melodic progression. Then to wrap things up, (Make The Music Go) Boom injects another classic hit that begs for you to witness it in a live setting.
Authenticity rules, and Joan Jett & The Blackhearts stick with their true identity for this project – merely pealing away some external layers for a more stripped-back live-style sound. The band employ creative freedom as ever, and maintain an undeniable level of both humility and passion along the way.
It’s a pleasure to crank up the volume and raise the roof a little with MINDSETS – I look forward to catching the band on tour.
Listen to MINDSETS. Find Joan Jett & The Blackhearts on Twitter, Instagram & Facebook or visit their Website for tour dates.
