Brooklyn-based band Pretty Rude released their debut album, Ripe, on May 16th via SideOneDummy Records.
One of our favorite cuts off the album is the powerhouse rocker “Things I Do”, a track that channels all the best of modern rock and garage rock in a way that just delivers the goods. The guitar work reminds us of some classic 80s rockers with a slick power pop nature that feels like a blend of The Cars and Thin Lizzy.
Speaking on the track, the band’s James Palko adds:
“I was listening to a lot of One Way Ticket To Hell And Back by The Darkness, which I consider one of those perfect ‘form, tempo, arrangement—all in one bag’ songs. What stood out to me was the acoustic guitar underneath the second verse. I got so fixated on that sound that I set out to make ‘Things I Do’ capture that same energy. There’s also a strong Cars influence in the structure, but with an edge. The distorted guitars and solo were definitely inspired by Thin Lizzy’s ‘Jailbreak.’ The song draws from classic rock radio vibes, but it’s about keeping it fresh while honoring a familiar formula. It sat as an instrumental demo for a while until I took a 10-hour drive from Rochester, NY to Chicago. After a tour and a life-changing milestone—moving in with my girlfriend—I finally finished it. That moment felt grounding and perfect, and the lyrics came naturally. What’s better than a power-pop guitar-solo love song? Very few things, in my opinion.”
Enjoy its music video below and find the record available to stream + buy at Bandcamp.
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