Pipsqueak

"Babydoll" CD

Ladies Choice Records

Genres: acoustic punk, singer / songwriter

November 2006

New from Ladies Choice, the label that brought us keyboard grindcore act Sean, comes Pipsqueak, the acoustic punk outfit of Seattle scene vet Jerome Sosa. I'd like to enjoy this stuff, but it just isn't working for me. Gritty punky vocals and vigorous acoustic strumming aren't all that great a mix, and this whole thing comes off amateurish and self-indulgent. If it weren't for the sound, the compositions would likely be better off - songs like "Sweet Liquor" and "Montra" show melodic songwriting and the like, but the fault is in the execution. I'd be surprised if the acoustic punk genre ever makes it past the bookstore live show, because its disorganized attempt at troubadour aggression isn't exactly easy on the ears. Next time, get out the electric.

diespace

60%

Fun Fact: Jerome Sosa's guitar is named Elizabeth.

Matt Shimmer

[Vitals: 10 tracks, distributed by CD Baby, released 2006]