Old Scratch, the debut album from Louisville, Kentuckys Trophy Wives, draws heavily from its place of origin along the banks of the Ohio River, a locale with a rich musical history that includes indie stalwarts Rodan, Slint, and Bonnie "Prince" Billy. Like the citys favorite son, Muhammad Ali, the band knows its punches from its poetry, and both are on ample display here. Playing on the loud-soft dynamics of its forebears but never slipping into the trappings of genre, the band lays a thick and heavy groundwork throughout. From the assaulting screams of "Bless You All," to the slinky bass and guitar lines that introduce "Picture Perfect," to the silky vocal intro of "616," Old Scratch introduces a band that youd regret to overlook. Take the punch and youll hear the poetry.