The Provocative Whites - Evolym (Independent) Is grunge a dirty word these days? If so than I really have to apologise to Tucson rockers The Provocative Whites because I don’t mean it to be. It is difficult to find another word to describe the Steve Albini produced ‘Evolym’, however it is definitely grunge in a good, revolutionary way before it was taken over by the drab sourists which give it such a bad name today. Think ‘Bleach’ era Nirvana or late period Heatmiser and not The Smashing Pumpkins. The self-released ‘Evolym’ clocks in at under half an hour yet passes through an astonishing wealth of songs across its nine tracks. ‘The Atlantic Divides’ is a great way to start things off whilst ‘Radio Friendly’ is a satire on censorship and is ironically, probably the most radio friendly song on the album, with its chorus of ‘I wanna say what I mean/ But instead I‘m gonna keep this radio friendly’. The title track is the standout here with its bittersweet melody and best showcases the strong vocal talents of Mike Rowden whilst Kane Flint’s guitar shines (weeps?) throughout. Fans of Atlanta band Manchester Orchestra should check The Provocative Whites out for sure, in fact Rowden and MO vocalist Andy Hull are eerie look-a-likes. Definitely a band to watch. www.theprovocativewhites.com www.myspace.com/theprovocativewhites Michael B. Next