Formed and helmed by John Simek, The Clean Crime Scene is a guitar-driven project that blends garage rock grit, psychedelic atmosphere, and melodic songwriting. With the help of his wife and a small group of talented friends, he recorded his new album, Raw Cuts – nine songs that draw from classic influences while maintaining a modern edge.
“Most of the music I listen to is pre-1980s,” John says. “With this record, I really had the intention of keeping it gritty and rough around the edges but still melodic, sort of an homage to some of my favorites from the 60s and 70s, with a modern edge.”
Kicking off the album with “Backstabbers & Moneygrabbers,” listeners are treated to grungy guitar, and a buried vocal style that reinforces the garage rock sound. While the chorus has an undeniably catchy melody, there’s also a dissonant feel to it that gives an almost Sonic Youth-like vibe. From there, “Elevator to Nowhere” shifts to a more straightforward rock sound, with whispered vocals that evoke late-’80s post-punk. Once again, the hooks are unexpectedly great.
One of the album’s standout tracks is called “Black Ice Blackout,” with a compelling edginess and a mix of layers and styles that make you want to listen again and again. The riffs and vocals are fantastic, and the track’s appeal lies in its moody, raw sound. For something more accessible and boppy, “In The Ground” delivers a solid indie rock sound that feels ’90s-coded in the very best way.
Another favourite (be warned, there are a few!) is the moody and cool vibe of “Devil May Care”. Unsurprisingly, more great riffs in this one, along with a wonderfully discordant edge. But of all the standout tracks, “Dark Days” may be the winner, pairing bright riffs with dreamy vocals. The primary hook throughout is an undeniable earworm.
For more great garage rock, look to “Don’t Mind At All” – the guitar has a classic rock vibe, and the vocals are full of attitude and swagger. The guitar takes centre stage on the next track, “Turn Down The Bright Lights,” with killer rhythm riffs and a standout lead that adds just the right amount of brightness to balance the song. The album closes with “Sunshine Death Train,” a perfect cap to a stellar album. Possibly the catchiest singalong track of the whole release.
Overall, the entire Raw Cuts album is surprisingly hooky and melodic despite vocals not being front and centre, and that somehow that makes it all the more intriguing. The psychedelic textures add depth and interest throughout, while the dual vocals work beautifully together and the riffs retain their raw edge. The album’s nostalgic feeling is a needed one.
In a world of soulless AI music, The Clean Crime Scene gives listeners something real, tangible, and delightfully gritty.
Stream Raw Cuts from Clean Crime Scene on your preferred platform:
Spotify / YouTube Music / Apple Music
Order Raw Cuts on vinyl via Blank Verse Records – this version has an alternate, special edition cover and track listing:
https://www.blankverserecords.com/vinyl/the-clean-crime-scene-raw-cuts-presale
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