Few bands today in the punk/hardcore world are as consistently great as Seattle’s The Drowns, and this new helping of a dozen tunes has Simon Short, Aaron “Rev” Peters, Andy Wylie and Jake Margolis in fine form for their diverse formula.
The aptly titled “Banger” starts the listen with plenty of retro-energy, where searing guitars, thumping drums and well-timed gang vocals invite a sing-along. “Ketamine & Cola” then follows with bouncy bass lines from Wylie, as Peters’ gruff yet melodic voice suits the bouncy rock’n’roll spirit that will always be timeless.
Deeper into the first half, the smooth and harmonic “Just The Way She Goes” touches on pop-punk nods, while the dense “Blacked Out” benefits much from the hard hitting yet tuneful rhythm section, where Margolis’ drums are stunning. “Yob On A Rampage” then rounds out Side A with a nostalgic swagger that brings us back to the early days of punk.
The back half of the listen doesn't disappoint either, beginning with the bright and dance floor-ready “1979 Trans Am,” which is followed by the buzzing and contagious punk rock of the rugged “All Charged Up”—the album’s best (perhaps their best song yet, actually).
The last three tracks offer us the summery, Brian Wilson spirit of the swift “Wheels,” as well as the anthemic and raw “Don't Have A Job.” The more intimate “Born To Die In NYC” finishes the listen with warm keys and soft singing; this is about as close to balladry as The Drowns are going to get.
A record that touches on ’50s rock’n’roll, ’70s glam-pop and modern day rock that brings to mind Hot Water Music, The Hold Steady or Cock Sparrer, Blacked Out will likely be one of 2024’s best.