Review: Semi Precious Weapons – You Love You
Any band that describes themselves as filthy, glamorous rock ‘n’ roll is always worth a listen. I had the pleasure of witnessing Semi Precious Weapons open for Lady Gaga back in January at Radio City. I only had to hear the first line of their opening song, “I can’t pay my rent, but I’m f*cking gorgeous,” to realize I was in smitten. Any band that can be that self-indulgent, yet still humble to their fans, is a band you can’t ignore. It was a long wait from January to the end of June when their album You Love You was finally released and I could breathe a sigh of relief. Having to settle for distant memories and YouTube videos was not enough to appease me.
Their style is pure glam rock, a reminder of early David Bowie —those Ziggy Stardust years especially. The songs are full of sex, sticky champagne, and more than a hint of vanity. The band has played every filthy, cheap bar in New York City and it shows in their music. Once upon a time, Lady Gaga was opening for them. It seems only fair she subjects her little monsters to their saucy rock music every night. If you enjoy the album, multiply their quality and energy by about a hundred and you can get a taste of what their live shows are like. The only disappointment I have with You Love You is that it sounds slightly polished, which is expected of any studio album. Live, Semi Precious Weapons sound completely raw, energetic, and stunning. A song like “Sticky With Champagne” just doesn’t sound the same. Nor do you get to experience the pleasure of lead singer Justin Tranter pouring champagne down your throat.
Don’t fret though. The album is still more energetic and engaging than most of the tame music currently being thrown at us. After you’re left breathless by songs like “Semi Precious Weapons” and “Magnetic Baby,” enjoy the magnitude of “Statues of Ourselves.” A steady bass line and drum beat slowly build to a culminating musical orgasm, which was probably what the band was intending. The album ends with plenty of glamor, but no filth. Instead, we can enjoy the ballads “Leave Your Pretty to Me” and “Look At Me.” You can measure the talent of a band by how well written their ballads are. If they’re cheesy and predictable, hit the skip button. If they force a tear to slowly stream down your face, you’ve hit rock ‘n’ roll gold. Semi Precious is of course, the latter. The band says it best, “Rock ‘n’ roll never looked so beautiful.”
