Seven years ago we had our last taste of EODM and it was good. But can they live up to their previous efforts? In a word, yes. Indeed, Josh Homme and Jesse Hughes have managed to do even better.
Put simply, Zipper Down is the sound of two buddies expertly paying homage to the rock and roll of their youth. Throughout, the dynamic duo stylishly doff the cap to numerous ’70s greats, including Iggy, the Stones and Cheap Trick. Though the influences are obvious, Homme and Hughes utilise them with such flair that it’s impossible not to be lured-in by their infectious sense of fun.
Opener ‘Complexity’ sets the tone nicely, and acts as a kind of manifesto for the group, thanks to the central refrain: “It’s easier without complexity.” After blitzing through ‘Silverlake’, a pisstake commentary on LA’s titular hipster enclave, the band rip through the glam-on-speed kicks of ‘Got A Woman’ with equal ferocity. ‘Skintight Boogie’ is a filthy synth-based stomper, featuring sultry vocals from Tuesday Cross, though the standout track is ‘I Love You All The Time’, a delicious slice of Bowie-esque pop.
Overall, Zipper Down is a superbly executed exercise in fun and dirty rock and roll. The boys are back in town – and they sound better than ever.