Violet Grohl, the 20-year-old daughter of Foo Fighters frontman Dave Grohl, makes her debut with Be Sweet to Me, an album steeped in 90s alt-rock nostalgia. The record, produced by Justin Raisen (known for work with Kim Gordon and Yeah Yeah Yeahs), features grungy tracks and a coolly authoritative vocal style.
A Familiar Sound with a Twist
On the single "595", Grohl delivers a scuzzy, slasher-inspired alt-rock track that could have been lifted from 90s MTV. The song blends arch, deadpan verses with a big, bluesy chorus, finished with blown-out guitar and squealing feedback. Influences range from Veruca Salt to Queens of the Stone Age.
Despite her young age, Grohl's rock credentials are solid. She fronted a rare Nirvana reunion at age 13, showcasing her coolly authoritative vocals. However, she is candid about her nepotism, telling the Forty-Five: "Decide for yourself if I'm worthy."
Standout Tracks and Missed Opportunities
Album opener "Cool Buzz" is a roaring, snotty track that makes a persuasive case for her talent. Ska-inspired guitar riffs crash against hardcore drums as Grohl rails against narrow-mindedness. The slow-burn centerpiece "Often Others" is seething, sour, and groovy, while "Mobile Star" shows a softer, creepier edge with Lynchian strangeness.
However, the nostalgia can feel too reverent and predictable. The glitched guitar on "Last Day I Loved You" and tape-deck fizz on "Plastic Couch" come off as stage makeup rather than genuine war paint. Grohl's threats need sharper fangs to fully convince.
Be Sweet to Me is released on 29 May.
