I’m a sucker for trios. I can’t help it—something about that scrambling of the bass, the guitar and drum kit makes me jump for gooey punk. But, it can be like eating a tube of cookie dough, the first few chunks are orgasmic; the middle half you’re thinking, “I just got to get through this—ignore the nausea”; almost past the two thirds mark and you’re done eating cookie dough for at least a week. At least. The Safes are that middle ground. I really, really, really wanted to like this when it started. I felt like the vocals sounded somewhat like Billy Corgan, but a nice Billy Corgan. Like maybe Billy Corgan at a Ramone’s tribute. “Since Trust Went Bust” is catchy, it’s fun. The synergy of the cranky guitar and gritty vocals sets a solid foundation. “Everybody in the World” makes you feel like you are a part of something—you’re not alone. They have the punk and resonance I’ve loved since Gang of Four. Yet, it still feels like The Safes are background music to Laguna Beach. They played this round safe. I wanted more! The O’Malley brothers are onto something…I’d like to see it grow. 

thesafes.com