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Formed in Florida back in 2006, Black Kids‘ debut album “Partie Traumatic” pays more than a little homage to 80’s rock-pop band The Cure. Vocalist Reggie Youngblood’s delivery is akin to the style of The Cures very own Robert Smith. Jazz pianos, bass hooks and guitar stabs occupy the album’s collection of 80’s inspired indie-pop tracks. Everything is tied together by the sparse use of a classic synthesizer which will take you back to the glory days of “Just Like Heaven“.

Singles “Hurricane Jane” and “I’m Not Gonna Teach Your Boyfriend To Dance” are strong examples of the type of experience you will get from listening to Black Kids debut release - an eclectic collection of danceable, retro-fueled infectious dittys. The drums are big and driven, the guitars are subtle and lush and the synths are well programmed.

Standout tracks include opener “Hit The Heartbreakes” with it’s wah driven guitar riffs and excellent call and answer vocal layout. “I’m Making Eyes At You” is another excellent track with synth driven soundscapes as Youngblood whines “I’ve been making these eyes now since 1982″.

Fans of The Cure or modern pop-rock will undoubtedly enjoy Black Kids debut release but many will ask the question of when homage becomes blatant plagiarism.

7/10.

• Black Kids Official Website
• Black Kids on MySpace