In 1992, the year Sir Mix-A-Lot rapped about oversized backsides and Billy Ray Cyrus pleaded on behalf of his ticker, U2 launched an attack on the media with their groundbreaking Zoo TV Tour.
"When we saw Zoo TV, it all changed for us," said Carl Almasy [Coccaro], lead vocalist for the Miami-based alternative four-piece Nothing Rhymes With Orange.
Almasy wrote songs nonchalantly for some time until NRWO finally took shape in 2003 with his brother, Rich Coccaro, on guitar.
"We're fighting as much as we're loving," said Almasy about his younger sibling. "It's a love- hate relationship down to the core."
Despite the Gallagher-esque family feuds, Carl and Rich have managed to somehow twist and turn their differences into five albums, he said.
Back when the band came together they looked across the Atlantic for inspiration, citing Britpop bands like Oasis and Pulp. The massive impact of such English artists on NRWO is undeniable, which has made it easier for the band to gain attention across the Atlantic, he said. But they still haven't forgot about home.
"We're American boys at heart," said Almasy, who has tapped more into his American roots on the band's latest album, The Happiness Struggle, set to be released March 16.
On the new album, Almasy trades in abstract metaphors for more straightforward lyricism as he explores the album's main theme, finding the light at the end of the tunnel. It only makes sense that "Escaping Hell," a two and a half minute tune about overcoming struggles, is the record's first single.
"It's our first album in four years, and I think it's our best," said Almasy. "We'll let the people judge that."
The band will be headed back to Europe to tour soon, which has become a biyearly tradition over the years, Almasy said. But, those of you in the states can check them out at any of these shows:
March 6 at Propaganda in Lake Worth, Fla.
March 13 at Bardot in Miami, Fla.
March 20 at The Living Room in Boynton Beach, Fla.
April 2 at Dada in Delray Beach, Fla.
For more information, visit nrwo.net.
