Album Review: "Like Clockwork" by Double Up – A Hidden Gem from 1989
Released in 1989 under Robbins Records, Like Clockwork by Double Up is a rock album that doesn’t shout for attention but quietly demands it. Hailing from the US, this record blends raw energy with polished production, thanks to the combined efforts of its talented crew and contributors like producer Doug DeAngelis and mastering guru Greg Calbi. With credits ranging from Brian Calabro’s pounding drums to Kevin Lenear’s soulful saxophone solos, the band crafts a sound that feels both nostalgic and refreshingly unique.
The album kicks off strong with “Fastlane,” a track that grabs you by the collar and doesn’t let go. It’s fast-paced, edgy, and driven by Rocco Antonelli’s gritty guitar riffs. Billy Barrett’s vocals are unapologetically bold here, delivering lines that stick in your head long after the song ends. The interplay between Jake Norman’s basslines and Doug DeAngelis’ subtle keyboard touches adds layers to what could’ve been just another high-energy anthem. This one stays with you because it’s not trying too hard—it just works.
Another standout is “What Love Was.” If “Fastlane” is the adrenaline rush, this track is the reflective comedown. Kevin Lenear’s saxophone steals the show here, giving the song an almost cinematic quality. Barrett’s lyrics tug at something deep without being overly sappy, while Norman and Antonelli weave intricate melodies that feel timeless. There’s a bittersweet vibe to this tune that makes it unforgettable—a mix of longing and acceptance that hits differently on every listen.
What sets Like Clockwork apart isn’t just its musicianship but also its authenticity. You can tell these guys weren’t chasing trends; they were making music they believed in. Linda Bean’s design work and Mark Wise Photography Ltd.’s cover art give the album a cohesive aesthetic that matches its sonic personality—bold yet understated.
Looking back, it’s kind of wild how this album flew under the radar. Sure, it didn’t have the glitz of bigger names from the era, but maybe that’s why it still resonates today. Listening to it now feels like rediscovering an old friend who never got the recognition they deserved.
And honestly? That might be the best thing about Like Clockwork. In a world obsessed with flash and fame, it reminds us that sometimes the quiet ones leave the biggest mark. Or maybe I’m just saying that because I secretly wish I’d discovered it sooner. Either way, give it a spin—you won’t regret it.
