The Worn Flints’ “Clementine” is chock full of barnburners

By Ryan G

Clementine is a rock record to be reckoned with.

When I first discovered The Worn Flints I fancied them more of a jam band. Their bio even emphasized the drawn out sections that are often hallmarks of a psych band. The psych foundation is still present, and the band even refines an old tune – “After Life.” Everything is just wound together in a neat little package.

If I had one complaint it would be that some of the songs seem to end a bit prematurely. But even then, I tend to say that leaving folks watning more is a good thing. The Worn Flints aren’t necessarily keen on sticking to the traditional 3 minutes and 30 seconds song formula. We often find ourselves hurrying through a couple verses and huge hooks before transitioning to a jam session. It’s almost as if even in the studio the guys started out with a traditional structure but couldn’t help but get lost in the music. Clementine is good at presenting both the catchy songwriting ability and the ability to get in a groove without being self indulgent.

So, what tracks do I like? I like the tracks with big hooks that scream “future summer anthem” to me. “The Message” and “Cuervo” certainly hold potential in that regard. And, though I already wrote about it in a single reviews post, I have to shout out “Burn” again. It’s a heckuva album opener. “Blister Shuffle” is a fitting title for a track that is one of the most aggressive on that record.

“3 Kings” showcases vocalist Kenny Stiegele’s commanding vocals – nostalgic and modern all at once. He might not have the most versatile range, but he gets your attention, darn it. And that might be a more important skill, to be honest. And it is a textbook example of the Worn Flints formula – it tells a story, but replaces the conclusion with a breakdown and a groove that will make you bob your head, if not dance.

The Worn Flints seem to hold all the hallmarks of being a breakout band of 2017. Will they? Time will tell.