FEDERALE's point of origin is New York City, but the swaggering boogie rhythms and bluesy rock grooves that they flawlessly execute were born south of the Mason Dixon line. It's unclear how these damn Yankees cracked the code, but they're flaunting their mastery of the rock genre on this, their full length debut. The one thing that is clear upon first listen is that this is the kind of musicianship that has been finely honed in garages and performed with a resolve that has been strengthened by years of low paying bar gigs. In other words: this is rock 'n' roll.

The whistle that signals the start of the record could also be used to signify a new winner to this great rock n' roll relay race that the Peacedogman site so meticulously covers. A clonking cowbell and shifting rhythms make album opener "Hong Kong Trail" a tune to remember. This song is such a clear statement of intent, that if you aren't sold on the band by the song's recklessly up-tempo dénouement, just go ahead and hit the "eject" button. The track "Robin Trower" simmers with a heavy bluesy-ness not unlike the goods supplied by the song's namesake. Just when you thought you had the band figured out, FEDERALE switches things up with the multi-part "Quarter Roy." This epic showcases a different brand of songwriting than previously evidenced on the record, but instead of sounding contrived, it still fits well within the organic sound that the band lays down on the other songs.

Their music certainly finds them at home in the all-encompassing "stoner rock" genre. Comparisons to bands like DRUNK HORSE and HONKY are inevitable, but these cats certainly have enough going for them to set them apart. Small Stone Records oughta get their heads outta their asses and sign these guys immediately.

- Broadbent

OFFICIAL SITE: myspace.com/federale

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