The band's similarities to The Format (R.I.P.) starts early with “On To Me,” the first track on the Ladylike Vol.1 EP. Its acoustic guitar and fifties-era piano riff put the fun in this tale of a crush finally catching onto long-sent vibes. “Dandies on a String,” the second track, brings a bluesy stomp to the party but doesn't let it overpower the Happy Days vibe. Things slow down on “Do it To Death” and we get a Beatles-esque rave-up to end the single.
Taken as a whole, Ladylike Vol.1 reminds me of Weezer's “Buddy Holly” video in its melding 20th century styles.
Released in November of last year, the Cinema Kiss single continues in a pop vein but draws from different eras. The title track brings out 90s guitar-rock at its most playful. It isn't a stretch to imagine it on the set list from Miniature Tigers, another great AZ pop act.
The clock gets turned back on the b-side. “Old Young” is an acoustic ditty that creates a sense of nostalgia from the first listen. It is a look forward to old age that makes geriatric living seem like a vacation.
Cinema Kiss is further evidence of Ladylike's abilities in pop songcraft. The band may be the new kid on the block, but it's the preternaturally gifted kid that other children secretly envy.
You can catch Ladylike at Long Wong's Tempe on February 13th or at The Rogue on the 27th.
Ladylike lands squarely in the pantheon of great Arizona pop bands. And they've done it with only five songs. Their Ladylike Vol. 1 and Cinema Kiss singles don't take up much space on your iPod, but their melodies will stay in your head for days.
