The Mallrats

The Mallrats are a French power pop group active from 2008. They are led by guitarist Ted Angel, who fronts the band alongside bassist Adam and drummer Steele in the group’s original line-up. The band also uses the name The Mallrats in connection with a Sacramento, California-based trio from an earlier period, but the act is now identified as originating in France.

Style and influences

The band plays 1960s-rooted power pop with mod and pop punk influences. Their sound draws on mod-revival groups such as the Jam and the Lambrettas, as well as 1990s mod-punk acts including the Odd Numbers, Gain and Hi-Fives. They also take influence from pop punk bands such as MTX and Sweet Baby. Their approach is built around Rickenbacker-driven pop and a direct, melody-led style.

Early image and recording history

In their early period, the members present themselves in suits and ties, matching the look of the bands that influence them. They are signed to the German label Screamin' Apple, the same label that issues the Decibels’ first album, and they record with Decibels producer Bart Thurber. Their debut album, Fall in Love All Over Again with..., is their main release and is often noted for its strong power pop writing.

Line-up changes and later activity

After a European tour is arranged, drummer Steele’s personal problems affect the group, and Adam and Ted replace him with former Groovie Ghoulies drummer Jaz Brown before continuing the tour. During this period the band lose their formal stage image and the songwriting becomes more mature. By then Ted is also in the Mr. T Experience and is working with Dr. Frank, which influences his writing toward wordplay, song craft and performance. Back in Sacramento, Ted records several songs alone on 33rd St., playing all the instruments himself.

Releases and legacy

Alongside their album, the group also issue two Christmas songs for a local compilation, and they have an original demo and the 33rd St. sessions circulated as part of their recorded history. Although they release only a small amount of material, they are remembered as part of the lighter, more wholesome side of power pop and are compared with acts such as the Shoes, the Rubinoos and the Heats.