Note: French Toast is made up of DC hardcore veterans Jerry Busher, James Canty and Ben Gilligan who were full-time or touring members of bands such as Fugazi and Nation of Ulysses.
Also Note: Ingleside Terrace was produced by Fugazi drummer Brendan Canty.
Sound: With all three members alternating lead vocals, the vibe changes from track to track. The constant is that each style is more straightforward and classic-sounding than what you’d expect from your average Dischord artist. The mellow, antagonistic malaise of latter-day Fugazi, and a raw and jittery, bluesy/rockabilly swagger reminiscent of Iggy Pop and The Cramps pop up most frequently. But they open the album with Who-like, mod rock, close it with a rave-friendly, electronic jam and find time for a little of the aggression more typical of their pedigree.
Heavy Rotation tracks: “Took You for Strong”; “Settle In”
Medium Rotation tracks: “Take Me All the Way”; “Wasn’t He Great”; “Protest Sign”; “The Letter”
Explicit Lyrics*: “U.S.S.B.S.”
Recommended: Ingleside Terrace is such an eclectic and consistent mix of songs, what’s not to like? It’s a pleasure to hear these veteran musicians having some fun and making quality music in the process.
Grade: B+

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* Noting of explicit lyrics is for the benefit of radio music directors or anyone else that needs/wants to keep their music FCC-friendly.