The E.P. format suits the brand of old-fashioned, non-pretentious rock and roll of The Hard Lessons. The band's new five-song, "Wise Up," doesn't waste a moment, cycling through a pair of rave-ups, a couple ballads, and a final rave-up for good measure. The Hard Lessons are three Detroit-area teachers and old college chums who last year decided to leave the classroom to rock out full-time. Their stripped-down but rich sound consists of guitar, drums, organ, along with shared vocal duties. The trio has gained a loyal local following by playing dance-friendly, audience-participatory, all-ages shows at schools and VFW halls as well as bars and clubs.
Oftentimes, bands like The Hard Lessons that become known for their high-energy live performances put out lackluster releases that reveal lots of showmanship but less musical prowess. Not so The Hard Lessons. "Wise Up" boasts tight performances from all three members, with Ko Ko Louise's organ sounding especially vivid. The two ballads, "It Bleeds" and "Move to California," are highlights, both spinning heartbreak yarns--stories populated by round, real characters. The latter is a great example of The Hard Lessons' characteristic, male-female duets, with vocal duties vollying between Ko Ko Louise and Augie the guitarist. Well worth a listen, and if you're in the Detroit area, check them out at Flint's Local 432 on May 27 or Ferndale's Magic Bag on June 10.
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