by Alana Janelle Mauger

“Penny Collection (2009, self-released),” the fifth album from Philly rockers Clashing Plaid, is a solid effort steeped in old school rock n’ roll with enough punk influence to delight fans of both genres. The album features nine new tracks that range from the upbeat punk-inspired “Penny Collection,” “Saying I Love You,” and “She Loves Fire,” to the darker side of rock with “Remote Control Betty,” to the solid rock anthems “Johnny” and “Loud Box,” to the emotional eulogy of “Long Walk Home.”

The album features lyrics inspired by everyday life (think Social Distortion meets Bad Religion) intricately woven with melodic guitar riffs and cutting beats (think Rolling Stones meets Kiss)—evidence that Clashing Plaid has honed its synergy on the music scene for more than a decade. The guys (Steve Ackerman on drums and vocals, Kenny Leso on bass and vocals, Anthony Porter on lead vocals and guitar, and Andy Watts on lead guitar) also boast a devoted following of fans at venues throughout Philadelphia, its suburbs, and beyond. The availability of “Penny Collection” on CD Baby and iTunes will no doubt garner the band a broader following.

Five previously released bonus tracks–“Waiting for the Wrecker” and “Pretty Things” (“Play It Loud,” 2006), “Stick Around,” “Emotional Wreck,” and “Ghost on Main Street” (“Mix and Match,” 2003)—round out the release. The only notably missing fan-favorite is “31 of Those Days” off of “Play It Loud;” however, the 2006 release is solid in its own right and is available for free download at www.clashingplaid.com. Also not to be missed is the band’s 1999 holiday single “All I Got for Christmas Was Drunk,” also available on the band’s website.

by Alana Janelle Mauger -  http://imaginehope.wordpress.com/

Check out Alana's new music blog:  http://kismetbreak.wordpress.com/