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Simply put, The Boroughs are a punk / rock band hailing from New York City, New York. The band formed in 2002 and consists of Ryan Dwork (vocals, guitar), Grady Feldgus (drums) and Justin Farrell (bass). Similar to many of their influences, the band loves to play loud, melodic, passionate rock and roll. Like their influences: The Clash, Lou Reed, Nirvana, The Violent Femmes, The Ramones and CCR, The Boroughs write and perform music that moves the mind, body and soul. Founded in NYC, the group's sound and attitude is as raw and refined as the city they live in.
The Boroughs have just recently had the pleasure of releasing their debut EP entitled “Ostrich”. Composed of five solid tracks, the band has set its mark and has taken a stand as the defining face of punk rock in Queens.
It is obvious that The Boroughs musical style sounds very similar to The Ramones and Buddy Holly. The sound has a rough, edgy, and energetic feel which gives it its old-school CBGB’s style and definitive flair. The EP starts things off with ‘Gone Too Far’. This song has a modern punk musical feel, blended with old style punk vocals, an excellent combination. ‘Ostrich’ I have to admit is very catchy, but generic. Lyrically the song is lacking in its simplicity with it’s almost nursery demeanor. The band makes it up with ‘Dine ‘N Ditch’. This is an excellent song that perfectly showcases the band’s talent on all levels. Musically and lyrically this song excels. This track could be put up against hits such as ‘I Wanna Be Sedated’. ‘Trust Fund’ is another excellent track. Lyrically it deals with the struggles that millions of New Yorkers face by being walked over and stepped on by the rich and wealthy. Musically I can feel rage and anger in the instruments and especially in the vocals. The song is still very catchy and doesn’t sound whiny, so nothing is taken away from its overall effect which is stellar. The EP concludes with ‘Disappointed’, an edgy, catchy rock song with strong similarities to Buddy Holly.
The Boroughs have all of the necessary cards for a full house. They write and perform music that moves the mind, body and soul. They have played some of the most prestigious New York City clubs including CBGB's, Luna Lounge and Arlene's Grocery. In addition, the band was selected out of thousands to participate in Little Steven's Underground Garage Rock Festival and Guitar World's M.E.A.N.Y. fest. Topping it all off with the debut EP “Ostrich” has been receiving to rave reviews. Graduating from the Ramones school of rock, the band’s goals remain the same ; play shows, make records, pay rent and of course ROCK!
Rating: 3.5/5
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