The Cynz, a New Jersey/New York–based rock 'n' roll band, release their fifth album today — and their first with the illustrious JEM Records. The Cynz are probably best known for their electrifying live performances which revolve around the chemistry and charisma of lead singer Cyndi Dawson and guitarist Henry Seiz. It may have been a slight surprise when this '70s punk–influenced, full-throttle rock band signed to JEM. But anyone who hears Little Miss Lost is sure to conclude that The Cynz fit in perfectly on the JEM roster. This is the kind of record that is timeless to me — a big, hooky rock album packed with songs that would be radio hits if they still played real rock 'n' roll on the radio. It has a distinct '80s feel yet still sounds modern, and it highlights the tremendous songwriting talents of Dawson and Seiz.
While not fully a concept album, Little Miss Lost is semi-autobiographical. It finds Dawson revisiting a difficult time in her life — when she struck out on her own at 17 and had to make her way in New York City. In addition to crafting rocking and immensely catchy tunes, Dawson and Seiz really poured their hearts and souls into these songs. What results is an album that delights from start to finish. At a time when so many bands attach themselves to narrowly defined musical styles, it's a breath of fresh air to hear a band that just wants to make a great rock album. "Crow-Haired Boys," Dawson's reminiscence of frequenting New York clubs as a teen, is so anthemic that it sounds like it could be the grand opening number in a rock musical. The title track is pure hard rock without irony. "When We Were In Love" is the definition of pop bliss — featuring a chorus that straight-up gives me chills. "Just a Boy" and "Narrow Hips" demonstrate that The Cynz can do power pop as well as anyone on the JEM roster. "The Only One" is classic '60s pop with raga rock touches. "Fall Away," the album's emphatic closer, is a punky, kick-ass rocker. Covers of Holly & The Italians' "Tell That Girl To Shut Up" and The Smithereens' "Room Without a View" do justice to the originals but infuse plenty of that distinct Cynz style.
The press release for Little Miss Lost talks about how these songs "might" be Dawson and Seiz's strongest material to date. Well that's the understatement of the year! I can't imagine any fan of the label not enjoying this album. It brings to mind the "cooler" side of '80s AOR without sounding dated. And while The Cynz are certainly inspired by many greats of the past, their music is more the product of their two songwriters' unique talents and personalities than it is of any specific influences. Little Miss Lost is an absolutely fantastic album and one of JEM's very best releases in recent years.
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