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Modern Vices/ Photo Via @modernvices Instagram
Modern Vices, an indie-rock band of Chicago natives got their start in 2014 with the release of their self-titled debut album on Autumn Tone records (the label that had previously worked with the likes of Twin Peaks and The Orwells). I first was made aware of them when they opened for Twin Peaks years back, and after seeing them, I found myself thinking: “Woah, that guy’s (Alex Rebek) vocals are insane”. Their performance blew me away, particularly as someone who has grown accustomed to rougher, messier vocals. I mean, I sh*t you not, this guy’s voice was like butter. I later went home and downloaded their self-titled album, which promptly became an integral part of my soundtrack as a freshman in highschool. I honestly hadn’t heard much from them for what felt like forever until the release of their second album If Only, in October of 2019, although they had released a single or two here and there before it’s release.
Modern Vices/ Photo by Tim Nagle
I’ve heard the self-proclaimed “dirty doo-wop” band’s sound described in a multitude of ways, and they do have a pretty unique thing going on. I’ve even heard Rebek’s vocals compared to Glenn Danzig’s- which, I won’t lie, I can’t unhear. Indie-rock, garage-rock, crooner, even surf- their first album speaks to the noise of garage-rock while providing the romantic and rich vocals reminiscent of doo-wop prevalent in the 40’s and 50’s. So, I guess you could say “dirty doo-wop” hits the nail right on the head. I do notice a fairly stark difference between their first and second album sound-wise. It seems to me like the band’s going in a cleaner direction with their sound, and that could have a lot to do with the step up in production value from their previous LP. At any rate, I enjoy both albums and if any of this sounds interesting to you, I suggest you check them out at Sleeping Village (or at least spotify).
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