The Stiletto Formal - This Is My Boomstick EP
Release Date - 04/11/06
Record Label - Independently released
Before I commence criticism, I’m not asking if The Stiletto Formal is better than ATDI because that would be unfair and outdated. It would also be inaccurate – TSF is more new wave and “indie-core,” if you will. The comparison mostly comes from vocalist Kyle Howard’s notable likeness to Cedric Bixler (see "The Fall of Ambrose Bierce"). I also think it’s unfair to judge TSF based on their experimental-ness, even if it is a “post” guideline. Their tiny four track EP, This Is My Boomstick, isn’t as wildly fresh as I would have hoped with Sunny Davis’ cello role, but it’s a bottom line solid. Is this enough? I don’t know, but I still like it. As for the ATDI comparison, TSF uses the same vocal-centric aesthetic and off-kilter harmonies, as do the rest of their class. These elements make post-hardcore, and TSF shouldn’t be ashamed of this. There are plenty of current post-hardcore outfits that fight a valiant and good fight, TSF included.
Loaded with a stepping synth, gentle female vocals, hard-pounding piano tinkles, and dirty guitar riffs, it keeps up to pace with constant rhythm and gentle, mocking percussion. All four tracks reverberate the common post howls, a half-spoken lyrical mass, and eerie harmony drops. Enough tempo changes and element incorporation (handclap included - see "I Sing The Body Electric") warrant an ADD diagnosis (or multi-tasking or whatever you want to call it), and the dark romantics of the well-put cello parts headline this. I am reminded of creepy Absinthe-flowing European dance clubs.
Creepsters and ATDI aside, TSF is meaty, ghoulish, and indubitably edgy - all of which is damn sexy. And I dig new-wavy, sexy music – the kind that lurks shadowed corners, dark and mysterious. Walking away from each four-minute echoing sesh provides a good argument for more, and I am easily convinced to stalk down Masochism In The Place Of Romance, This Is My Boomstick’s preceding EP. This is not to say the TSF crew hits perfection; TIMB could be more powerful and moving. While the production slips by mostly unscratched, the bigness of the instrumentation doesn’t make the kind of impact it should. While the whole package is obvious and itching for an encompassing embrace, I think it’s just nervous for a full-frontal peep show. Come LP time, TSF may practically be porn stars.
basically, russ, scott (when he writes em) and you are my favorite reviewers on this site. this shit is top notch.
i didn't like this ep as much as their first, but it's pretty solid. regardless, keep it up.
The Stiletto Formal is an amazing band. This ep is an amazing peice of work. The cd release show was one of the best shows I've been to also. They put on amazing energetic shows.
I'm glad TSF is getting some recognition. WAyyyy overdue! This band rocks and one of few electric,indiecore bands who can capture thier CD sound and make it better live!!!
basically, russ, scott (when he writes em) and you are my favorite reviewers on this site. this shit is top notch.
i didn't like this ep as much as their first, but it's pretty solid. regardless, keep it up.
The Stiletto Formal is an amazing band. This ep is an amazing peice of work. The cd release show was one of the best shows I've been to also. They put on amazing energetic shows.
Do they tour nationally often. If so, I will definitely make plans to see them when they come around the east coast. Why isn't this band signed?
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