The Jan Martens Frustration

“This U.S. release of the Jan Martens Frustration's self-titled album actually combines that album with all the tracks from their H Bomb Club EP, as well as adding the B-side Catch as Catch Can. Although the Frustration are described as a garage-psychedelic act in some of their promotional material, they're not as derivative of styles and bands from decades past as many retro-styled combos are. It's more like straightforward alternative {guitar rock} with garage and psychedelic influences, with Martens' somber, aggressive vocals acting as the center. Some backwards effects, eerie swirling keyboards, assertive riffs, and ringing guitar suggests they've heard early Pink Floyd, '60s British mod bands, and the Byrds, but these features don't overwhelm the proceedings. The songs have an ominous yet detached tone, as if Martens is indeed frustrated, but is holding his more anguished hostilities in check. The musicians craft a tense and punchy sound, though not a very melodic or ingratiating one.” ~ Richie Unterberger, All Music Guide