Divine Providence

iTunes Review

This Rhode Island five-piece is sparking on all cylinders, with a sound ranging from tough post-punk kicks to raw and raucous country rock. Deer Tick owes more than a little debt to The Replacements, but the writing here is so good and the performances so commanding that the band’s roots matter little. A cover of former Replacements leader Paul Westerberg’s “Mr. Cigarette” rounds out the collection and neatly pays homage. But it’s the pure rock ‘n’ roll bluster of “Funny Word,” “Something to Brag About,” and “The Bump” that evoke the explosive bar-band-with-no-boundaries spirit that was Westerberg’s bread and butter. “Main Street” encroaches on Westerberg’s solo work. “Let’s All Go to the Bar” is the perfect rebel-rousing anthem. “Chevy Express,” “Now It’s Your Turn,” and “Electric” expose Deer Tick’s quiet, vulnerable side, while “Miss K.” is an endearing pop song that proves these guys have what it takes to be around for quite some time.