Review
"Shaka Rock" crashes back into the rock scene with a bang, as Jet churns out an album that screams, "We're here to rock, like it or not." Dropping on August 21, 2009, under Virgin Records, this third studio monster from the Australian band grabs you by the collar and doesn't let go. It's drenched in the raw, garage rock vibes that remind us of their earlier days, but don't be fooled—there’s a slick sheen of maturity in the melodies and lyrics that shows these boys have grown up a bit, at least musically speaking.
Launching with "K.I.A. (Killed in Action)," the album delivers hard-hitting rock right from the start, setting a no-nonsense tone with razor-sharp guitar riffs. The standout "She's a Genius" might as well be the little brother of their smash hit "Are You Gonna Be My Girl," sporting hooks that snag you right in. And yet, amidst the headbangers, you find tracks like “Seventeen” and “Beat on Repeat,” offering a more nuanced take on emotion and anthem. On the flip side, critics couldn't decide if they were at a rock concert or a rerun, giving it mixed reviews across the board. But let's be real, isn't the point of rock to ruffle a few feathers? So, for those who just want to rock out without overthinking it, "Shaka Rock" might just be your jam. - Leo