The Struts - “Body Talks” (feat. Kesha)

SXSW 2020 - OEB Score: 9; Popularity Index: 10

Pairs Well With…The Strokes, Foo Fighters, The Darkness

Bombastic and unapologetically catchy, glam rock band The Struts have one consistent gear across their two full-lengths, rambunctiously performing in mode that feels like a natural continuation of their 70s/80s forefathers. Everything in The Struts’ music sounds big, whether its in arena-ready guitar riffs, hand-clap percussion, or reverberating vocals that embody the UK quartet’s music. They perform with a combination of youthful exuberance and tight, mature songwriting, never quitting and making the most of every measure. While The Struts consistently lean hard into their rock and roll sound, there’s a charming warmth that hides within their cleanly produced approach, almost tongue-in-cheek instead of completely nostalgic. This all adds up to The Struts expectedly being hit-makers with rock-revivalist listeners and beyond, producing a string of memorable tracks beyond just one or two singles since debuting four years back. While The Struts originally had some big spring/summer tour plans on the books, they are making due with the recently launched “Sunday Service” streams from their Youtube and social channels featuring full-band covers and more performed across four different houses as one. (Kevin McStravick)