Headstunts (Bonus Track Version)

New Zealand’s Datsuns play old school rock n’ roll with the freshness and immediate conviction of true believers who understand that it’s how you approach your job that defines it. Everyone has access to the same basic chords but few can turn them into an irresistible march. From “Human Error,” the opening track of their fourth album, the Datsuns are charging through with fuzzed-out guitars, manic drum rolls, and group vocals that endear them to anyone looking for a loose, “real cool time.” “Hey! Paranoid People! (What’s In Your Head?)” throws out a loopy keyboard riff. “Cruel Cruel Fate” slides towards early-‘70s glam rock with some glittery riffs. “Your Bones” sounds as if the ‘70s have come back both in teen angst and boogie riffs: ZZ Top as a punk band? Crazier ideas have occurred and in 2009 churning out a demented high school pep rally anthem for “High School Hoodlums,” thrashing through the beat for “Yeah, Yeah, Just Another Mistake” or adding an extra layer of guitar strum for “Ready, Set, Go!” may not be innovative genius but it slakes the thirst for some genuine, unpretentious rock ‘n’ roll.