Punk is being kept alive by several bands. Sahara Hotnights is one of them. They are a talented band gaining international attention, having emerged from the vibrant and completely Swedish music scene. With a sound at once recalling punk progenitors The Clash and hard-edged but melodic modern noise of the White Stripes, the new album from Hotnights Jennie Bomb features 11 tracks of explosive and addictively heavy music.
Classic punk hooks blare from a tough young quartet who put it right in your face without a second thought.
Led by Maria Andersson (lead vocal, guitar), Josephine Forsman (drums), Jennie Asplund (guitar), and Johanna Asplund (bass), the band will perform at Maxwell’s in Hoboken on Feb. 28 at 9 p.m.
Their sound developed quickly as a result of hard touring on Sweden’s gig circuit. As they entered their late teens, Sahara Hotnights wrote new material, then last year returned to the studio and came out with Jennie Bomb (Jetset Records) Sizzling and ferocious, Bomb represents the pinnacle of the band’s blend of timeless punk bass-lines, hard rock guitars, and catchy but tough pop melodies.
Album opener "Alright Alright (Here’s My Fist Where’s The Fight)" captures the fierce attitude with its urgent new wave guitar.
We recently caught up with Josephine Forsman, Hotnights’s drummer.
EM
– Where is the band from?JF – Cold northern part of Sweden. Robertsfors.
EM – Who are the band’s influences?
JF – George Harrison, Daniel Johnston…The Clash, Bob Dylan, Nirvana….
EM – Why do you guys make music?
JF – Because we are generous…and genius!
EM – Where did the band meet?
JF – Robertsfors, 10 years ago.
EM – Is the band looking for mainstream exposure?
JF – No.
EM – What professional plans does Hotnights have for the future?
JF – …professional plans…?
EM – What is the best part about being a rock band?
JF – All the sweat and attention.
Sahara Hotnights will perform at Maxwell’s at 1039 Washington St. in Hoboken on Feb. 28 at 9 p.m. Tickets are $10. They will play with special guests The Gore Gore Girls, Ikara Colt, and Washdown. For more information call (201) 653-1703 or visit www.maxwellsnj.com. q