The Von Bondies

Love, Hate And Then There’s You

[3/5]

There’s a reason why the Von Bondies’ 2004 single “C’mon C’mon” is not only the greatest theme song in TV history (sorry, Friends dudes), but also one of the best indie-rock singles, like, ever. The formula: Start with a filthy, repetitive guitar riff; add Jason Stollsteimer’s bruised snarl juxtaposed by cooing, coed vocals; set on fire; roll down hill. You can’t blame the band for trying to branch out on Love, Hate And Then There’s You, though. New-wave pop like “21st Birthday” and the spacious “Modern Saints” manage that somewhat. But like a football runningback (not so fast there, Detroit Lions), it’s when the band put their heads down and sprint straight ahead that they score. Thankfully, the hugely ripping, wounded sing-song of “Pale Bride” and “Blame Game” fit that “C’mon C’mon” model to a T. (MAJORDOMO; majordomorecords.com) Luke O’Neil