Album Review: Poundcake’s Kick The Can
Poundcake’s 1995 release, Kick The Can, is a hidden gem in the alternative rock scene that deserves more than a passing glance. Released under Q Division and produced by Jon Lupfer, this US-born album doesn’t try to reinvent the wheel but instead delivers raw, heartfelt tunes with a gritty edge. It’s not perfect, but it’s got soul—and sometimes, that’s all you need.
The opening track, “Algernon,” grabs your attention right off the bat. It’s punchy, unapologetic, and feels like a late-night drive with the windows down. The guitar riffs are sharp enough to cut glass, while the vocals carry this sort of angsty charm that sticks with you. There’s something about the way the melody builds—it’s chaotic but controlled, like they’re daring you to look away (or stop listening). And honestly? It works. You remember “Algernon” because it doesn’t just sit in the background; it demands your attention.
Then there’s the title track, “Kick The Can.” If “Algernon” is the wild child, this one’s the moody older sibling. It’s slower, darker, and layered with these brooding undertones that sneak up on you. The lyrics feel personal, almost like you’re eavesdropping on someone’s inner monologue. What makes it memorable isn’t just the music—it’s the vibe. Listening to it feels like standing in an empty parking lot at midnight, wondering what comes next.
Jon Lupfer’s production deserves a shoutout here. He lets the band breathe without over-polishing anything. Sure, some parts could’ve been tighter, but maybe that’s the point. This album feels alive, warts and all.
Looking back, Kick The Can is the kind of record that probably didn’t get the hype it deserved back in ’95. Maybe it was lost in the shuffle of grunge and bigger names dominating the airwaves. But here’s the thing: albums like this remind us why we dig through crates at thrift stores or scroll endlessly on streaming platforms. Sometimes, the best finds are the ones you weren’t even looking for.
Final thought? If Poundcake had made another album after this, who knows where they’d be now. Guess we’ll never know—but hey, isn’t that kinda beautiful?
