Album Review: Kissing Is A Crime – S/T

Written by: Madison Hetterly

Kissing Is A Crime’s debut self-titled album is the perfect combination of chill vibes and punk optimism. Before moving to Brooklyn, lead singer/guitarist Matthew Molnar spent his youth in New Jersey performing in various punk and hardcore bands. Once meeting New York native singer/bassist Beatrice Rothbaum, Kissing Is A Crime took form and has been thriving ever since. Now, joined by guitarist Larry Sass-Ainsworth and drummer Alex Feldman, Kissing Is A Crime is at the place Molnar has been dreaming of.

This eleven track LP kicks off with “Nervous Conditions” giving nostalgic feels of the 1960s with punk and angst driving the lyrics. Next up is “Permanent Damages,” with a dynamic drumbeat and in your face melody that brings up memories of anger and heartbreak.

Taking a turn at “Noise At Night” we get a chance to hear Rothbaum on vocals who adds a fresh innocence to the album. Eerie and haunting in the best ways, we have a nice contrast to the first two songs. Following is “Shelia’s Gone” an upbeat and melodic tune that is easy on the ears with delightful harmonies and guitar refrains.

Next up is “You Make Me Shatter” a chill and relaxing tune where we hear the introduction of Devan Davies on wood instruments that add a nice enchantment into the mix. Switching it up follows “Kids” with a classic punk feel and nostalgia for the much easier time of being a skateboarding kid on a Saturday afternoon. “Crown Royal” brings the mood up with a more cheery disposition that will make you want to dance or at the least nod your head.

“Blind Bruises” brings out the emotion and pure angst with vivid imagery and uses every lyric to tell its narrative of pain and loss. After that is another pick me up with “Someone Who Needs No One” that gives us the vintage guitar pop Molnar was inspired by growing up. Classic punk style leads way to “You Would Never Understand” that will remind you of your teenage rebellion phase and rouses up both innocence and anger.

Closing out the album is “Unanswered Prayers” with thoughtful lyrics and a moody chorus.
After years of thought and exploration, Kissing Is A Crime created the perfect combo of nostalgia and new that will encourage you to explore your full range of emotions while wanting to dance in your bedroom. If you like Kissing Is A Crime’s self-titled LP make sure to follow them on social media to see what’s next!

Twitter: @kissingisacrime | IG: @kissingisacrime