The Midnight Callers

Rattled Humming Heart

Jem Records

This New York band with real power in their pop, and punk attitude, makes for a real pick me up, especially on “New York Tramp.”

What is also striking is their kindness and respect toward women. Even when they're chasing someone, as in the really good, Tom Petty-esque “Girl On The Run,” they’re daring the woman in question to dump them. With “Tramp” it’s a tribute, not a put down. “Maggie" is a nice tribute to a dear friend who passed away.

There is also some social commentary. On the thought provoking “What Goes Around” the stoner kid gets the prom queen pregnant, Mr. Pretty sneers over everything, and all will get theirs in the end. It’s good to hear adults rocking out without nostalgia.

So if you like what you read here and want to check out some truly adult rock that draws from Petty as much as, say, the Strokes, and is women friendly too, this is the band to go for.

Andrea Weiss