Album Review: Devin - Romancing

Romancing is the debut effort from Brooklyn-native Devin Therriault. He has been called “the meeting point between Jack White and David Johansen (New York Dolls)” by Time Out New York. NME took on a different point of view, describing Devin as having “screamy Casablancas-esque vocals”. Whichever way you look at it though, Devin certainly brings something unique to the solo stage.

Each of the album's 12 songs are high-energy, classic rock with a punk twist. All were written and sung by Therriault who also plays lead guitar on each track – not bad for a 20-something with a monster quiff. The album was recorded in Devin's home before being worked on by Chris Zane of Les Savy Fav and The Walkmen fame.

Romancing is one of those albums that need a few listens before the songs can be distinguished as separate entities. After you've given the album a decent chance, tracks like I Don't Think I and I Was Your Boy stand out as highlights that would fit raucously on an indie dancefloor. Slower tracks like White Leather and In My Solitude give Devin a chance to show off his songwriting skills and prove he's no one trick pony. The first track, Masochist, provides some of the most fun yet relatable lyrics that you're likely to hear for a while.

This is the kind of album that is perfect to listen to when you need a pick me up or a new view on your latest dating disaster. According to Devin “it's about running around with the one you love, doing whatever you want”. Sure, why not.