There’s no shortage of material when it comes to discussing the band TERRIBLE THINGS. First, there’s the matter of the line-up, which features Fred Mascherino on vocals and guitars (TAKING BACK SUNDAY, THE COLOR FRED, BREAKING PANGEA), Andy Jackson on guitars and vocals (HOT ROD CIRCUIT, DEATH IN THE PARK), and Josh Eppard on drums (COHEED AND CAMBRIA). Bassist Steve Lucarelli played on the full-length recording, but has already left the band. Without knowing anything else, that line-up smacks of a strong start. Second, the band figured that the best way to introduce themselves to world was through a concept album about an arsonist’s reign in Chester County, PA from a few years back, where Mascherino grew up. The theme lends itself to cutting, haunting lyrics, but the story-line doesn’t always translate into something the listener wants to sing-along with despite the immeasurably catchiness of the material (a problem that I often have with concept albums).

TERRIBLE THINGS make their debut on a major label and it’s a smart fit. Without making too much of the comparison, it’s hard to avoid the band’s connection with TAKING BACK SUNDAY, and Mascherino and company have surely taken notes on the most effective way to jam memorable lyrics into the minds of the listener (repetition, repetition, repetition). The sterling production amps up the “loud rock” feel of the music, but there’s no sugary pop sheen or wince-inducing synths or similar digital tricks. The band is closer to HOT ROD CIRCUIT (with their traces of southern rock influence) or FAR than they let on, and that latter element really comes out on the pounding closer “The Arsonist’s Wife.” Andy Jackson handles lead vocals on “Wrap Me Up,” and it’s at that point that you realize having a band with essentially two very talented frontmen is a winning combination and a luxury most bands would love to have, if only they could figure a way to massage egos.

Give the track records of all of those involved in the band, it’s hard to predict whether TERRIBLE THINGS are an outfit suited for the long haul, but favorably, this full-length has a timeless appeal and no scene context or prior band history is needed the enjoy the hell out of it. Appreciate that for what it is.

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