Review / 200 Words Or Less
Stiletto Assassins
Self Titled

Independent (2011) Aaron H

Stiletto Assassins – Self Titled cover artwork
Stiletto Assassins – Self Titled — Independent, 2011

I don't really know where to begin with this EP. Its groovy rock sensibilities throw back to 70's glam rock, but without the theatrics and clever satire. I don't think I get it. Part of me thinks it's intentionally a joke, while the other half of me believes it's to be taken seriously. I'm inclined to lean towards the former due to song titles such as, "Tigerblood" and "Samurai." Let me just say though that writing songs about Charlie Sheen is just as bad as having to listen to him.

It's clear I'm not the intended audience for this, and that's fine. Whoever it is intended for though, perhaps tighter music playing would be beneficial. The drums are sloppy and the vocals were cringe-worthy. The only track I found bearable was the upbeat, "Virgin Dynamite." It's the only song that sounds like they actually spent time working on it. More tracks like this could make the band a bit more entertaining and work in their favor. However, I wouldn't expect them to hit the same status as Steel Panther anytime soon.

2.5 / 10Aaron H • September 24, 2012

Stiletto Assassins – Self Titled cover artwork
Stiletto Assassins – Self Titled — Independent, 2011

Recently-posted album reviews

Errth

Errth
Uncle Style Records (2025)

What makes a gruff vocal melodic punk band stand out? That's the question I'm asking myself as I listen to Errth's debut on repeat. I've been playing this record for probably a month straight and I dig it. It checks the heart-on-sleeve style I enjoy but I'm struggling to figure out why, exactly. I think on this, it's the tones … Read more

1186

Histeria
Drunken Sailor (2025)

If you read enough press releases, you start questioning if you even know what genre names mean. Post-punk has been one of the most abused terms of the past 2-3 years and it seems to mean wildly different things to different people. To me, it’s always meant an ear for angular guitars and noise atop more traditional song concepts. 1186 … Read more

Li Jianhong

Shuttle Raven of the Dream
Utech (2025)

Li Jianhong's philosophy surpasses the direct relationship of a musician with their instrument of choice. Instead, Li has advocated for Environment Improvisation, where the urge to create and improvise is established by the artist's surroundings. Looking at Li's website you can find numerous instances that inspired him to settle down and start improvising, drawing energy from the surroundings. The music … Read more