Following from the success of their debut album 'When You're Ready', Two Day
Rule are back more energetic than ever. 'Been Around' may be a short offering
(6 tracks in total) but it packs a fair punch! Taking the band's songwriting
talents to another level you can expect those same quirky vocals from previous
offerings packaged with a bit more skater-rock appeal.
Hailing from Bristol Two Day Rule are often described as anything but the standard pop punk band, have a listen to Two Day Rule, the kids love it!
Two Day Rule
"Been Around"
(Sugar Shack)
Released: 29 September 2003
Having already garnered themselves a dedicated fanbase of pre-pubescent school
kids through their debut LP ‘When You’re Ready’, Bristol quartet
Two Day Rule can’t be blamed for refusing to upset the applecart. Thus
‘Been Around’ trails an almost identical musical path to that of
their debut: six songs rammed to the rafters with thunderous guitars, vague
ska moments and infectious (if hackneyed) hooks, the only thing that really
separates them from the raft of pretenders religiously touring the toilet circuit
(and getting nowhere fast) is Andrea Kenny’s velvety, Stefani-esque vocal
interludes, which offer enough contrast to give Two Day Rule a sound they can
at least call their own. Few of their peers have that to their credit.
www.logo-magazine.com
Two Day Rule - Been Around EP
Reviewed: 13th October 2003
Yet another one I should’ve reviewed a long time ago. I dug this out of my CD pile about a week ago and I really am glad I did because this is the kind of melodic punk rock that makes the world go round. I suppose I should get this out of the way: there is a girl in Two Day Rule, and she sings a bit. That means that I can just chuck in some lazy comparisons to Save Ferris or perhaps ID#1 (RIP) and palm off the rest of the music. Or I could ‘do a Kerrang’ and not bother to listen to it and confuse a girl with a boy as happened with the ace No Comply. Or I could review it properly.
The thing is, there are times when Two Day Rule really do sound like Save Ferris or early No Doubt, with the chunky melodies and distinctive vocal presence of Andrea Kenny, but to be honest these moments aren’t hugely frequent. To call TDR a rip-off band simply because they happen to have something in common with other bands is preposterous and lazy as fuck since the truth is that Neil Murray shares the vocal duties for the most part, and on the title track the bouncy melodies are augmented by a solid bassline that weaves in and out of the main lines with ease. What’s most impressive about this band is the confidence with which they throw in accomplished riffs and this is demonstrated pertinently in ‘Make The Best Of Being Wrong’, which could be Tsunami Bomb a bit slower.
True, there does seem to be some generic punk on here, but it never really strays into the poppiest territory; no cheesily saccharine lyrics or all-too predictable choruses here. The fantastic ‘Nothing Serious’ has a cynical verse section that just takes flight during the chorus and to finally slip into shit-journo mode, the vocal interplay works extremely well – I’m not saying it’s gimmicky at all, (and to generalise hugely) just that female vocalists have a totally different edge to their voices which fits punk rock like a glove. However, ‘Gone For Good’ rapidly slips into the mundane muted riffing that starts in one place, then continues standing still, then sits down at the end – not the most exciting of tracks, it must be said.
‘One More Time’ takes on an inventive ska pattern that deviates from that clean/dirty, quiet/loud template which grates so quickly, but doesn’t really set itself apart from other tracks on the EP. I guess that’s TDR in a nutshell – they have some very good moments when their music really does soar, but they’re too few and far between for their songs to make a lasting impression. After the languid final track by the name of ‘Waiting For The End’ that serves as an atmospheric closer which wouldn’t appear out of place on a dark film score there’s a somewhat pointless secret track – pointless because it’s really good and there’s no need to ‘hide’ it. Trouble is, apart from a couple of exceptions the tracks on ‘Been Around’ don’t really distinguish themselves and I think that ends up as a real shame because they could be an excellent band if they concentrated a bit harder on the slices of melody and fast pace. Promising, and if you’re a fan of any of the aforementioned bands then I seriously recommend this.
TWO DAY RULE
"Been Around"
(Sugarshack)
7/10
When I interviewed Two Day Rule a couple of years ago they were stoked at how fast things were moving. In fact there was much talk about teetering on the verge of that final step to "making it". The fact that hasn't happened is no reflection on them, it's just that the two-faced bitch called the music business is an unfair and fickle mistress. But in that time they've spread out a little. The No Doubt influence is still here, but there's more to it now. I'm not gonna use those hideous wanky journalist words "matured", professionalism" or "natural progression" because they suck. Suffice to say Avril Lavigne could score another chart hit by releasing any of these six songs, and if those same kids hear Two Day Rule before that skater bubble bursts they'll undoubtedly be pop stars too. -Paul Raggity
Two Day Rule – ‘Been Around’
www.stateofemergency.net
August 2003
Two Day Rule has an enigmatic sound sparked by their acidic vocals and powerfully punchy tunes. This EP is a step beyond high-standards into a new wave of ska-punk. It oozes originality and a bezerk flavour of hi-energy and unforgettable songs making it a must have EP and a delicious taster of what is to come in the future…
Hailing form the West Country, the UK scene looks brighter as this band cast a shining light on the power pop/ska punk genre. The quartet have once again excelled their song writing to another level with songs that sound truly superb as a whole and a collective on this short but punchy EP. Six tracks fuse a formula of witty duel vocals, pumping bass lines and quick drumming that blast the tracks forward along with the quirky guitar lines.
The band dominance lies in the lyrics. Superbly written tracks scripted for two outstanding vocalist offer the listener well-balanced, harmonised trade off’s between Neil Murray and Andrea Kenny. Each song has a captivating chorus that stick in the mind with guitar solos, driving bass lines and soulful singing.
‘Been Around’ opens the EP off to a flyer. Its popularity has showed, along with ‘Nothing Serious’; as they have been highly rated on download sites being downloaded at a tremendous rate. These songs show the true talent of the band and that their boundless-energy of their live shows has been transferred through the studio to their CD.
‘One More Time’ is a witty take on a love-hate relationship that is fuelled by infectious ska chords and cheeky banter between the to main vocalists. ‘Waiting For The End’ ends the EP at a slower tempo but still sparkles with its emotive mood. This change in styles shows the versatility of the group and their ability to write song after song that captivates its audience. There is also a short hidden track that is just as throttling and the rest of the EP and is a welcome addition to the CD.
This album seeps with charisma and instantly hits your need for seriously great music. All I have to say is that if you haven’t heard this group, you’re missing out!
Standout Tracks: ‘Been Around’, ‘Nothing Serious’ & ‘Gone For Good’
TWO DAY RULE
Been Around
(Sugarshack)
KK
Mini-album from Bristol quartet lacks life.
It's not that Two Day Rule are a bad band - -they can play just fine, they
can sing just fine and their songs are a semi-catchy combination of pop-rock
and ska-punk. The problem for Two Day Rule is that they sound like a band who've
just resorted to playing what comes easiest to them. Everything sounds underdeveloped,
under-produced, and under-written - -there's nothing here that challenges the
listener, and you're left yearning for a much fuller sound. As such, this six
tracker (plus a hidden one) all becomes rather predictable rather quickly.
The only thing these Bristol residents really have going for them is Andrea
Kenny. Her vocals are powerful, distinctive and melodic - reminiscent of Tilt's
Cinder Block (now fronting Fabulous Disaster) - and while co-vocalist Neil Murray's
voice is good, Kenny essentially carries the quartet. With some development
and an injection of energy, they could be great, but as it stands, they're merely
average.
Rae Alexandra
TWO DAY RULE
BEEN AROUND
(Sugarshack)
BRISTOL'S Two Day Rule boast a similarly exuberant punk rock pace and doubly dynamic, two-pronged boy-girl vocal assault to those chart bothering late 70's pogo-pit favourites the Rezillos. Bringing their frame of reference smartly up to date, Two Day Rule swap sixties sci-fi and go-go boots for hook-heavy popcore and barbed-wire-attitude SoCal ska. The end result, exemplified on this six track compendium of precision harmonics, is a rough'n'ready domestic equivalent to the Dance Hall Crashers. It's hobbled, ever so slightly, by an unremarkable production job that occasionally leaves the singer sounding like a cautious Fame Academy reject struggling for the high notes. That said, the bare bones of a great band are here - -masterfully crafted material that oozes real promise. Just a pity that - on this occasion - something crucial has been lost between thought and expression... Maybe next time.
Ian Fortnam (6/10)
Metal Hammer
Two Day Rule
The Borderline, London
(July 2001)
There have been busier nights at this venue, of that make no mistake. But that
doesn't seem to matter as Bristol's Two Day Rule get into their 2-Tone stride,
cranking and skanking. A real surprise package, this foursome have enthusiasm,
ebullience and energy in abundance.
This is ska-punk without those irritating baggy trousered cliches. It's new
age hardcore, with vim, vitality and songs. Good songs. Hummable songs. Playable
songs. They'll go far.
Rating 7/10 Metal Hammer (Malcolm Dome)
Distort Fanzine, August 2001
Two Day Rule, Had A Good Thing (Sugar Shack Records)
Eek! What's happening? One minute these Bristolian scamps are whooping it up
like a slightly iffy high-octane Bis on the title track, the next thing you
know, they're exploding to the four winds with the thoroughly bezerk 'SPACE'.
Don't worry about the skew-whiff production or the mis-matched vocals, Two Day Rule are capable of the kind of quality fun-core gubbins Symposium were flinging out at their peak. Rating 4/5
Record of the Week, The Tip Sheet, 16/8/2001,
Space 'Two Day Rule'
This is the B Side (or double A side at a push) to the Had A Good Thing single,
and the label reckon everything else on the forthcoming album is superior.
We hope they're right but we love this regardless-a short sharp blast of new band energy with a great tune but not a millisecond of fakery in earshot-not things you could say about any skate rock/punk/emo track we've heard recently.
They're a four piece from Bristol. Neil Murray and Andrea Kenny both do lead vocals, guitar and songwriting, although Andrea dominates on this track, which she wrote herself.
If we were signing bands, we'd sincerely wish they were unsigned, but they're not-they're signed to Bristol's Sugar Shack Records which is distributed by Shellshock.
Rock Sound
October 2001
Had A Good Thing
4/5
Sounding for all the world like an American power punk band, Bristol's Two Day
Rule offer an interesting spin on the chatting-up routine. Twin vocalists and
guitarists Neil Murray and Andrea Kenny trade witty banter and repartee, and
put a few cliches to rest. I wonder what they'll do next.
Metal Hammer
Singles Review Oct 2001
Had A Good Thing
Goofy guitar solos? Cow bells? One suspects that these people
probably have day jobs as agricultural labourers in the Wezz Country.
Metal Hammer
Check 'Em Out - New Bands
What do they sound like?
A cross between No Doubt, The Ataris and Blink 182
Who's in the band?
Neil Murray (vocals/guitar), Andrea Kenny (vocals/guitar),
Craig Smith (bass) and Matt Woolman (drums)
What have they released?
Their debut, double A sided single 'Had A Good Thing'/'Space'.
Anything strange about them?
There seems to be an awful lot of graffiti around the Bristol area that reads
'Two Day Rule stole my girlfriend!'
Check out their website at: www.twodayrule.co.uk
Rock Sound
October 2001
Punk and Hardcore news
Every month Rock Sound introduces you to a band to watch out for...
Name: Two Day Rule
Line-up: Neil Murray (lead vocals/guitar), Andrea Kenny (lead vocals/guitar),
Craig Smith (bass), and Matt Woolman (drums)
Where from: Bristol
History in brief: Born in September 99, Two Day Rule have been blasting out
their No Doubt-esque punky sound to anyone in surrounding areas who will listen,
building up a strong local following on the way.
They say: (Of the forthcoming album) 'It's pretty diverse as far as punk goes.
There's a bit in there that's kind of Calypso, it sounds a bit Ricky Martin,
a bit like a carnival in Rio. There's a pretty straight-ahead NOFX type tune,
lots of harmonies and a few duets. It's fast and my parents say the drums are
too loud as well.'
Releases: Single 'Had A Good Thing' released on 1st October on Sugar Shack Records,
with the album 'When Your're Ready' to follow in early 2002.
Virtual Cardiff, October 2001
Had A Good Thing
'Had A Good Thing' is the debut outing for Bristol-based outfit Two Day Rule,
a three and a half minute blast of power pop whose ingredients are rattling
bass and blazing guitars.
There's some great vocal interaction between Neil Murray and Andrea Kenny,
and judging by both the band's onstage antics and biography, these guys ain't
about to take life too seriously. Once again, music is fun!
Two Day Rule
Had A Good Thing
This is an addictive record with male and female vocals working off each other.
It is post-punk music that would fit really well into the current batch of punk/pop
band that have been receiving a lot of attention recently. If they had been
compared to anybody it is a bit like No Doubt but with more of an edge and more
of a British sound. A great band, will be interesting to hear more in the future.
Would nave been good on the festivals as they have a fun energetic sound about
them. (John Cooper) OBSCENE
Two Day Rule
The Barfly @ The Monarch, London, Monday, Oct 15th
Two Day Rule vocalist Neil Murray is wearing a T-Shirt tonight that bears the
slogan 'No K Rule' in honour of Kerrang's recent slaughtering of his band's
new single. It's a very funny touch but one that goes largely unnoticed due
the fact that all of the support bands fans have cleared off to the bar, leaving
just 25 people watching the Bristol pop-punkers, including the barmaid, the
bands press officer and myself.
Two Day Rule are not a dreadful band, in fact they're fun and bouncy and have some great tunes. The single in question though, 'Had A Good Thing', isn't their best song, sounding like Aqua with guitars. But tunes like 'End Of The Summer' and 'Odds and Ends' show just what this lot are capable of, and proves that the people in the bar were wrong to leave so early. Oh well, their loss. KKK (Brett Callwood) KERRANG
Two Day Rule
Had a Good Thing
Supercharged punk from the Bristol band that joyfully jabs a finger in the eye
of sickly love songs courtesy of a vicious duel-pronged vocal attack. The double
A-side, Space, is even louder and faster-and that's quite a feat.
(The Huddersfield Daily Examiner ) 10/10/2001
Two Day Rule
Had A Good Thing
Two Day Rule are a Bristol boy/girl quartet who have extracted their moniker
from Doug Liman's fine film 'Swingers' and 'Had A Good Thing' is their debut
single. It's punky bubblegum pop, a remake of 'Dead Ringer For Love' for Just
Seventeen readers who wouldn't mind getting some facial jewellery installed
if only their parents would let them. And co-vocalist Neil Murray sounds unnervingly
like Phill Lynott's Parson from Jeff Wayne's musical version of 'The War Of
The Worlds'.
The main feature is presented in different versions + another track 'Space'. FEEDBACK OCT 2001
Two Day Rule
Zum Bar 'In The City' Manchester Sept 2001
Taking to the stage like the aural equivalent of a swift boot to the arse, Bristol's
Two Day Rule treat us to a high octane, ramshackle ride through poptastic ska-punk.
Imagine NOFX jamming with Dance Hall Crashers and I think you'll get the picture.
We can only hope someone like Fat Mike takes them under his wing and shows them
a few punk rawk 'trade secrets' because, quite frankly, they lack the precision,
polished sound of our brothers and sisters across the Atlantic. Still it's early
days. 7/10 Metal Hammer Dec 2001
Two Day Rule
When You're Ready
Promising Bristol-based Ska Punk
If only good melodic punk wasn't so inextricably linked with the Californian
way of life, then British bands might finally get a look in on the world's stage.
Young and full of spunk, Two Day Rule are having a fair old stab at changing
that - and good luck to them. With Neil Murray and Andrea Kenny sharing boy-girl
vocals, they competently leap from driving punk to No Doubt-ish ska to calypso,
while never sounding like a bad joke. In 'Space' and 'Johnny and Loretta' they
have the tunes to back up the ambition, and they still sound British.
A heavy slog of touring and receptive ears could well turn Two Day Rule into
true contenders.
Ben Myers, Kerrang KKK, 23/02/02
Two Day Rule
When You're Ready
The Bristolian four-piece are simply buzzing with energy on their debut album.
Opener 'Odds & Ends', with it's hyperactive pace, is briskly followed by
'No Doubt', with it's sugary-sweet intervals (aptly titled, as Two Day Rule's
sound is likened to a chunkier version of the Orange County band of the same
name). Light ska beats coupled with noisy guitars and very British-sounding
vocals make for a rather refreshing release. Vocalist Andrea Kenny boasts a
strong set of vocal chords, dueting with guitarist Neil Murray, leaving an end
result to cure anyone's boredom. 'Johnny and Loretta' sounds like TDR are jamming
with Reel Big Fish at the Great Country Music Show, which anyone would think
was a bad thing, but believe it or not, it works. Get it, try it, you might
just like it.
Emily Kearns, Rock Sound 4/5, March 2002
Two Day Rule
When You're Ready
Musically, Bristol has a reputation for producing soft, chilled-out music such
as the likes of Tricky and Portishead. This doesn't seem to bother the city's
latest export, Two Day Rule, who attack the listener with an exuberant mix of
pop, punk, ska and what ever else is handy at the time.
'No Doubt' emerges as an early favourite, sounding not unlike the band of the same name, but with added harmonies and churning guitars. It's a template from which the band rarely deviate, but they've got the songwriting nous to pull it off effectively.
Two Day Rule's biggest strength is the dual vocal attack of singer/guitarists Neil and Andrea, who frequently lend themselves to some amusing lyrical banter, most notably on the previous single 'Had A Good Thing' - a tale of a guy trying (and failing) to win over a cynical girl with every chat-up line in the book. As entertaining as it is, this kind of song can get quite annoying if stretched over a whole album. Thankfully, TDR throw a few curveballs here and there, such as the jazz-tinged 'Johnny & Loretta' and the slower, reflective 'Don't Believe In Fighting'.
There's a few duff songs towards the end of the album, but overall this is a pretty promising effort. Two Day Rule sound like they've had a lot of fun recording 'When You're Ready' and I imagine they'd be a riot live too. They'll be touring the UK in early March. Alex Gossman, Spark 3/5, 11/02/02
Two Day Rule
When You're Ready
As The Strokes and White Stripes begin their 2002 on the crest of a media wave,
the music people are already looking for their next piece of fresh musical meat.
Which may or may not be where Two Day Rule come in. It's near impossible to
predict which band will 'make it', when fickleness is the name of the media
game. But with recommendations from Rock Sound and Metal Hammer, Two Day Rule
are on their way.
With a dodgy name inspired by the film Swingers (when you get a girls number, you wait two days before calling her) and comparisons to No Doubt, Blink 182 and NOFX, perhaps the warning lights should be flashing.
What may seem like another new band gimmick, but which works quite well, is the duel vocal talents of Neil Murray and Andrea Kenny. They are less a Christina and Ricky and more like a twisted Sonny and Cher. The twin lyrics are infused with a heavy dose of humour and suggest an interesting live performance if Two Day Rule brave these shores.
Sounding as American as anything that has crossed the Atlantic recently, it is hard to believe that Two Day Rule come from the same part of England as Massive Attack. Two Day Rule are very different from their chilling neighbours with words like power punk, edgy and rip-roaring being shouted in their direction.
When You're Ready is a pleasant surprise for anyone wary of this type of band,
with enough packed into its thirty-seven minutes to break any kind of rule.
Paul Staunton, The Voice 8/10
Two Day Rule
When You're Ready
Debut album from Bristol pop punkers
Two Day Rule's debut album is energetic throughout and the male and female lead
vocals mark them out as slightly different from a standard pop punk band. The
style reminds me a bit of 'Saw Red' by Sublime and Gwen Stefani. 'When You're
Ready' kicks off with a trio of highly impressive songs but the rest of the
album suffers from a lack of variety in the music. However, the songs are well
written and have strong melodies, especially when you consider the age and relative
inexperience of the band. It seems bands such as Two Day Rule and Grebo are
spear heading British Teenage pop punk at the moment.
The Big Cheese 3/5
Two Day Rule
When You're Ready
'Punk' is a pretty unfavourable term in music nowadays, unfortunately synonymous
with horrible major label genre killing bands such as Sum 41. So when Two Day
Rule describe themselves as 'the English representatives of American punk',
it wouldn't be irrational to wonder if their debut album When You're Ready is
going to be more songs by yet another Blink 182 clone.
Thankfully, such fears are eroded. The typical formula is still evident - hyperactive guitars, lovelorn lyrics and deep basslines, but this album is not saccharine sweet 'pop punk', it is retro skate with the infectious melodies of The Vandals or NOFX. The female fronted vocals are certainly a pleasant change and when accompanied with bouncy tunes, guaranteed to wake you up at anytime of the day, makes the whole thing rather impressive - despite the fact that the 13 song album does become slightly repetitive.
Track 3 - No Doubt is actually the most telling about When You're Ready. Yep,
Two Day Rule sound spookily like Gwen Stefani and friends on Tragic Kingdom.
The point? In essence Two Day Rule and When You're Ready aren't ground breaking
music yet they break away from the the current standardised form. So, if you're
missing some old skool ska-punk, buy this. It'll probably make you pogo around
the room. And also give you a bit of hope about the future of punk music.
Jazmin Burgess, The Beaver 3/5
Two Day Rule are a four-piece from Bristol whose debut album 'When You're Ready' (Sugar Shack Records FOD034) perfectly displays their brand of hard-edged ska/pop-punk. The energy is undeniable, the lyrics say more than you might think and the twin vocals of Neil Murray and Andrea Kenny provide a different feel to many of the songs. Just check out their recent single 'Had A Good Thing' with its attempted chat-up dialogue. This is great fun.
If you want to catch Two Day Rule live check out the following dates, March
6th Newcastle Trillians, 7th Peterborough The Park, 8th Chelmsford Army &
Navy and 9th London Underworld.
Wondrous
Two Day Rule were the final band and were clearly the best. They've been together longer that the other bands, they've played more shows and it showed. By now I was glad to see a band with some stage presence, who could hold a crowds attention. That said, I think I should mention that that the band were holding my friends attention before they went on stage (and that a certain female present was none too happy to hear that neither the drummer nor bass player were single).
At some point before this review ends I suppose that I should hold my hands up and admit that I don't love pop-punk as much as I did four years ago. I did, however, enjoy TDR's set, especially the song 'No Doubt'. A song, in fact, that is to be featured on the cover CD of Rocksound in a few weeks along with their interview with TDR front woman Andrea.
Actually, it looks as if TDR are shaping up into being Bristol's next musical success story, following Massive Attack, Tricky, Portishead, Sunna, etc up that winding road to mainstream success. I say this because, although only signed to Bristol label Sugar Shack, they recently inked a deal with Ministry of Sound, as the world's most famous dance label tries to diversify.
Now, although they've already had one single (Had a good thing, released in October), I think what's really exciting them now is the release of their album (When You're Ready) on the 18th February. I also hear they're looking to play Bath in the near future, having enjoyed their last Moles show (back in October).
Meaning that, loathe though I am to recommend any literature other than Impact
(or Hustler) I think that it is probably worth picking up a copy of Rocksound
next month so that you can listen to the cover CD. Either that or you should
turn up to one of their shows, so as to get the Two Day Rule experience live.
Either that or you could just do what my friends did and letch over the various
band members.
Impact
Two Day Rule
When You're Ready
Two Day Rule are a feisty Bristolian boy-girl punk combo. Comprising of Neil
Murray (lead vocals/guitar), Andrea Kenny, who vies with him for top billing,
Craig Smith (bass) and Matt Woolman (drums), they've built up a small racket
of enthusiasm for their accomplished punk sensibilities and crazy live sets.
Their debut album, released on Sugar Shack Records, begins on what seems to be a whimpered note. The likeable 'Odds and Ends' and 'No Doubt', which have me merely nodding with appreciation, do not bode extremely handsomely for the rest of the songs. Eager anticipation leads me to recent single, 'Had a Good Thing', which like what I've heard before is indescribable, but likeable, it's acerbic lyrics, about 'I want to get into your pants' being the only standout from the wall of sound. Flipside of the single, 'Space', is more reflective, with a thrashier sound and the tinny ring of the drum cymbal and maracas provide an interesting background to the centre piece - Andreas vocals.
The Ska-Punk, Blusey Jazz-fusion of 'Johnny and Loretta' provide the first
sign of originality to lift this band out of mediocre punk. This is the clear
winner on an album packed with smoothed out peaks and troughs. 'Better Off Now'
is a 60-esque number with more of the jazz and less of the funk. The juxtaposition
of this with the trashier 'I'll be Just Fine', reminiscent of Bis at their heyday,
works well. Reggae beats also make an appearance. Highlight number two is 'Sympathetic',
full of guitar noodling and the vocal spirit of Blink 182's Tom de Longe - pop
punk at it's very best. Part Two, ending with the excellent 80's pastiche 'Too
Good to be True', rounds off a real game of two halves...the second far outshining
the first.
Sajini Wijetilleka, Drowned in Sound 3/5
TWO DAY RULE
When You’re Ready
(Sugarshack)
Fucking hell, have this lot been injecting E numbers or something? This cheeky
young scamp of a quartet don’t so much sprint through this début
album, but saddle up a rocket and scorch their way through it, frantically snatching
at anything resembling a hook and cobbling together an LP which is nothing if
not fun. If angst is your thang, be warned that TDR make Terrorvision sound
like Staind on a wet Wednesday in Rhyl when all the donut shops are shut.
As such, ‘When Your Ready’ is fully-laden with pogotastic should-be-singles,
including album opener ‘Odds & Ends’, ‘Are We Having Fun
Yet?’, and the blindingly urgent ‘Space’ (itself a former
b-side). Tricks take a turn for the worse with the saggy mid-section of the
CD, but 3 or 4 easily skippable duffers a crap album doesn’t make, especially
when the majority will have you grinning like a fat-bastard cat in dairy.
Ian Distort (8) march 2002
Two Day Rule
Scootering Feature March 2002
Bristol is renowned as the UK's Trip Hop spiritual home - although not every
act to eminate from the sprawling city close to the English/Welsh border necessarily
fits into that particular category. For example Two Day Rule, who mix together
the ska tinged Pop of No Doubt and the Punk elements of Blink 182, are Bristol
based and proud of it too.
Whatsmore, although the qualification of ska these days is wide and diverse Ska is one of those major sources of inspiration, Andra Kenny, who provides (co) vocals and guitar for the four piece informs 'we listen to a lot of ska stuff, The Specials, Selecter and that sort of thing. I have to say No Doubt, especially Gwen Steffano are particular favourites of mine.'
They've been together since September 99 and Two Day Rule have been honing their barbed and serrated Ska - Punk Pop sounds to a razor sharp edge. Debut single 'Had A Good Thing' preceded their debut album on Sugar Shack Records. Currently Two Day Rule are embarking on a mini tour, with the Hardons, to promote their excellent debut album, before heading back to the studio to record the follow up album.
When asked about any scooter connection Andrea reveals, deadpan too, that Two Day Rule's co vocalist Neil (Murray), who plays guitar, 'was one of the first in Bristol with a micro scooter. 'Then with a smile she adds, 'we actually haven't got a background in scooters, at least not physically, although last August Bank Holiday Weekend I was on the Isle of Wight (I'm from there originally), and by 'accident' I discovered the Scooter Rally. I was looking for something to do and found all these skinheads, I met some nice people, and I have to say after that I quite fancy getting a scooter - I really enjoyed this weekend'.
Forming from the ashes of Panic Button, Two Day Rule were initially 'from' a group of people who were hanging out in College Green - a park in Bristol.
'Some of our other influences are the Lunatiks and Fishbone, as well as old 'dub' Andrea reveals. Of course its not traditional ska, but more contempory Ska-Punk with side order of pop nous that is Two Day Rule's stock in trade - the rhythm section of Craig Smith and Matt Woolman and the Punk sensibilities to the mixing pot.
What about the name then, where does that come from, what's behind the name? Andrea laughs 'Its from the film Swingers - a comedy type film-its one of the rules of dating. If you get a girls phone number leave it two days before you call! Not that Matt, Craig and Neil think it applies to them though! 'She adds 'we take our music seriously. but not ourselves, there has to be a fun element.'
Their mini tour at present is a four date affair, catch them at the following: 6th March- Newcastle Trillians, 7th - Peterborough, The Park, 8th - Chelmsford ,Army and Navy, 9th - London, Underworld.
If Ska - tinged Punk Pop appeals make one of them a date, as if their debut album 'When You're Ready' is any indication Two Day Rule will definitely float your boat.
'When You're Ready'- out now on Sugar Shack Records.
Two Day Rule - 'When You're Ready'
From its Jamaican roots. Ska has mutated and transmorphed many many times. Ska-Punk
is currently one of the biggest underground sounds on the international scene.
Bristol's Two Day Rule have in their debut album managed to take the raw energy
of Skate Punk, fuse it successfully with Ska ideas and add a huge slice of Pop
appeal.
Their influences include No Doubt, and its the former American Ska popsters who Two Day Rule remind of, albeit with more a genetic power pop leaning.
Within the thirteen tracks that make up Two Day Rule's debut album there are some genuine 24 carat nuggets of blasting ska-punk pop, like the unrelenting 'Odds and Ends', 'No Doubt', 'Had A Good Thing'( with its duel vocals and blasting sound), 'Johnny and Loretta' ( which nods towards The Mighty Bosstones), 'Better Off Now', the dubby intro of Specials 'Ghost Town' inspired 'Don't Believe In Fighting', and the chugging 'Too Good To Be True'.
Not Ska that the purists would be comfortable with, music moves on. Two Day
Rule embrace Ska, Punk and Pop in equal amounts. A recommended album from Bristol's
Two Day Rule, one that will appeal to the more musically open minded.
Scootering - March 2002
SKA / PUNK ALBUM OF THE MONTH
Two Day Rule
'When You're Ready'
How many times has the term 'the next big thing' been whacked on an aspiring
British band and in the cold light of day they have proved to be anything but?
Hundred Reasons anyone? Well I'm not going to slap that kind of tag on Bristol-based
quartet Two Day Rule, but their debut album, 'When You're Ready', is most certainly
the most inspiring thing to have emerged from this septic isle in the last twelve
months. Sure their ramshackle brand of pop punk isn't quite the finished article,
but what TDR lack in musical expertise they more than make up for in enthusiasm.
Whether it's the duelling male/female vocals of twin frontpersons Neil Murray
and Andrea Kenny, or their witty tales of boy-meets-girl girl-kills-boy that
adds to their charm I don't know. But one thing is for sure, if you're of the
punk rock persuasion, you need to check this band out! [7] Daniel Lane,
Metal Hammer
Two Day Rule
When You're Ready
No wonder Bristol has spawned so much smoked-out-music - it looks like Two Day
Rule bought up all its distortion pedals and cornered their home city's market
in speed some time ago. Then took it all - or stomped on it - simultaneously.
So fast does When You're Ready happily zip by its all done and over faster than you can drink a pint of cider and smoke a roll-up. This makes catching what's actually being heroically shouted over spunky blasts of punk and ska between front paring Andrea Kenny and Neil Murray an impossible task. Not that you get anymore out of When You're Ready reading through the thoughtfully included lyrics on the inlay - random quote: 'It was only a matter of time before I fucked things up/And when I fuck things up I do it right.'
Which is what they've done here in a good way, come to think of it. And they get an extra mark for keeping that healthy dollop of humour. Ataris, take note. CODC, March 2002
Two Day Rule
When You're Ready
At a time when the population is in danger of drowning in a sea full of artificially
manufactured bands, it is refreshing to hear one that's a real band, playing
real instruments, living real lives, feeling real feelings, etc. Give me these
any day over manufactured bland pap. What they may lack in polish is more than
made up for by their guts, grit and get-up-and-go.
Furiously fast & energetic, they sing about real life, and it's disappointments, but in a way that brings you up rather than down.
Vocals are shared (at times fought over) between Andrea and Neil, resulting in enhanced dramatic tension. Every so often, we are treated to their harmonies set against the backdrop of amphetamine-driven drumming, stabbing bass and frantic guitar riffs. Not scared to draw upon a variety of influences including punk, thrash, ska, even swing-jazz, this lot actually sound like nobody else, and sound like they're having fun with it.
Makes me want to get up and go out, get nicely pissed in one of those dark
rooms that pubs put live bands on in. Actually can't wait to see them live at
the Underworld, Camden (March 12th). Miss them at your peril.
www.oilzine.com Feb 2002
Two Day Rule
When You're Ready
Ever seen the film 'Swingers'? No? Well it's very funny and you should. It's
where Two Day Rule is explained too: if you get a girl's number, leave it two
days before you call her. Call sooner and you look eager and uncool, leave it
longer and you might lose your chance. Dating, the slings and arrows of outrageous
pop-punk teenage-dom: these are the subjects of the songs on 'When You're Ready'.
You probably wouldn't guess they were from Bristol when you hear the power-punk sound of this Bristol four-piece. With obvious influences from NOFX, The Atari's and Blink 182 among others, the twist is in the two-pronged vocal assault from Neil Murray and Andrea Kenny. Bassist Craig Smith and drummer Matt Woolman bring a solid and tight backbone to the songs and are just as good at doing the high-octane pop-punk thing as the ska thing. This is no weak record but it would be refreshing to hear them define their own sound in a more home-grown vein (and no, I don't mean trip-hop and decks).
The melodic songs and sometimes funny angsty lyrics make for a good listen but I definitely wouldn't pass up a chance to see this band live judging from the pace and energy that the studio recordings still seem to have. So, if you want to get sweaty in the pit and maybe lose your shoes, go see them. I doubt you'd be disappointed. Mental Music, Feb 2002
Two Day Rule
When You're Ready
Promising Bristol-based Ska Punk
If only good melodic punk wasn't so inextricably linked with the Californian
way of life, then British bands might finally get a look in on the world's stage.
Young and full of spunk, Two Day Rule are having a fair old stab at changing
that - and good luck to them. With Neil Murray and Andrea Kenny sharing boy-girl
vocals, they competently leap from driving punk to No Doubt-ish ska to calypso,
while never sounding like a bad joke. In 'Space' and 'Johnny and Loretta' they
have the tunes to back up the ambition, and they still sound British.
A heavy slog of touring and receptive ears could well turn Two Day Rule into
true contenders.
Ben Myers, Kerrang KKK, 23/02/02
Two Day Rule
When You're Ready
The Bristolian four-piece are simply buzzing with energy on their debut album.
Opener 'Odds & Ends', with it's hyperactive pace, is briskly followed by
'No Doubt', with it's sugary-sweet intervals (aptly titled, as Two Day Rule's
sound is likened to a chunkier version of the Orange County band of the same
name). Light ska beats coupled with noisy guitars and very British-sounding
vocals make for a rather refreshing release. Vocalist Andrea Kenny boasts a
strong set of vocal chords, dueting with guitarist Neil Murray, leaving an end
result to cure anyone's boredom. 'Johnny and Loretta' sounds like TDR are jamming
with Reel Big Fish at the Great Country Music Show, which anyone would think
was a bad thing, but believe it or not, it works. Get it, try it, you might
just like it.
Emily Kearns, Rock Sound 4/5, March 2002
Two Day Rule
When You're Ready
Musically, Bristol has a reputation for producing soft, chilled-out music such
as the likes of Tricky and Portishead. This doesn't seem to bother the city's
latest export, Two Day Rule, who attack the listener with an exuberant mix of
pop, punk, ska and what ever else is handy at the time.
'No Doubt' emerges as an early favourite, sounding not unlike the band of the same name, but with added harmonies and churning guitars. It's a template from which the band rarely deviate, but they've got the songwriting nous to pull it off effectively.
Two Day Rule's biggest strength is the dual vocal attack of singer/guitarists Neil and Andrea, who frequently lend themselves to some amusing lyrical banter, most notably on the previous single 'Had A Good Thing' - a tale of a guy trying (and failing) to win over a cynical girl with every chat-up line in the book. As entertaining as it is, this kind of song can get quite annoying if stretched over a whole album. Thankfully, TDR throw a few curveballs here and there, such as the jazz-tinged 'Johnny & Loretta' and the slower, reflective 'Don't Believe In Fighting'.
There's a few duff songs towards the end of the album, but overall this is a pretty promising effort. Two Day Rule sound like they've had a lot of fun recording 'When You're Ready' and I imagine they'd be a riot live too. They'll be touring the UK in early March. Alex Gossman, Spark 3/5, 11/02/02
Two Day Rule - 'When You're Ready' 4/5
What a great week I’m having, In the same week I have seen Three Colours
Red, The site is doing better than ever (it has only been running 2 months but
it’s still doing well,) and now I have reviewed releases from two very
good Bristol based punk bands.
At first listen it’s easy to disregard Two Day Rule as your average pop-punk band and since they are ‘half female fronted’ the British music press will probably say that they are copying No Doubt. It would be harsh dismiss any band like that let alone one of the calibre of 2DR. Andrea Kenny and Neil Murray play off each others words and duet together so well over the fast and frenetic punk sound in the background. The band, completed by Craig Smith and Andy Woolman, manage to create a sound that is very original and entertaining. Even when you listen to one of their songs and you think that it sounds like someone else they pull it off so well that it really doesn’t matter.
‘Where did all the romance go’ the opening line on ‘I’ll be just fine’ seems to be an important sentiment of the band’s. You get the idea that they enjoy going out somewhere and dance the night away to good music but dislike the modern dance culture where people will go out in hope that a single cheesy line will result that someone will sleep with them. It’s seems that the band are longing for a time where people had more respect for each other. This yearning for years gone by is the most apparent in the swing of ‘Johnny and Loretta’ which also highlights the band’s open music they are not people for whom ‘punk’ or ‘metal’ is not the only sound in the world. All in all 2DR are an incredibly diverse and capable band who if you’d rather not get caught up in the emotional side of their music then they are also damn good fun. 2DR only need decent backing and ambition to make the big-time, as much as a British punk band can anyway.
Standout Tracks: 'No Doubt', 'Had A Good Thing', 'Johnny and Loretta', 'I’ll Be Just Fine' and 'Don’t Believe In Fighting'.
END OF SUMMER - Two Day Rule
October 2002 by Stephen Chapman
Don’t be miss-led by the fact that Two Day Rule are published by Ministry of Sound. “End of Summer” is about as far removed from Ibiza as Supergrass are.
In spite of its quite blatant rock/pop ethic, there’s something in the back of my mind which keeps saying “Dum Dums” over and over again. It’s possibly also down to b-side “Being straight with you” which is very nice, fast guitar pop but merely one chord away from screaming kids and Saturday morning television.
But then that’s me being a music ponce and let’s face it, if the
tunes are good enough who cares about the image… 7/10