Energetic, angry punk-rock at its best.
Unlike so many punk-rock bands who have recently decided to ‘mature’ their music, “The Definitive Act” sees Tsunami Bomb stay true to their raucous, thumping sound that has led them to become loved by thousands in the US and UK alike. “The Definitive Act” is their second full-length release and the follow-up to 2002’s “The Ultimate Escape”’.
Tsunami Bomb have always been masters of capturing the energy and fury of their live performances on disc, and "The Definitive Act" is no exception. Blistering guitar hooks and thudding drumbeats provide the perfect backdrop for Agent M’s soaring vocals as she leads her gang into battle - and there is definitely more than one battle being fought throughout this record.
Despite the majority of the songs being presumably influenced by their turbulent past (there was even a near break-up during the recording of “The Ultimate Escape”) because of the current political climate, Tsunami Bomb’s anger and cautioning lyrics appear much more focused and significant than ever, especially in “Dawn on a Funeral Day” and “Safety Song”. But instead of focusing all attention on negativity, many of the songs contain positive advice and brim with expectation and hope. From the solid, sharp throb of “Being Alright”, which wouldn’t be out of place on “The Ultimate Escape”, to “Negative One to Ten”, a slice of pop-punk that salutes the feelings of empowerment and freedom gained from listening to your favourite songs, Tsunami Bomb encourage dreams and exuberance and take no prisoners whilst doing so.
When listening to songs like “5150” and “A Lonely Chord”, you realise that Agent M isn’t simply reciting lyrics, but means every word she sings, and has written from experience. Accounts of feeling isolated, unsure and coping with heartache are bound to strike a chord with just about every teenager listening, and her brand of up-front, original lyrics are a refreshing alternative to the mushy clichés currently choking the music scene. Having a female singer could also provide the perfect opportunity for the band to exploit their ‘female input’, but it seems that for Tsunami Bomb, gender isn’t an issue, as the music is strong enough to speak for itself, and is accessible to boys and girls alike.
Even if you aren’t yet a Tsunami Bomb fan, have a listen to this record and I bet you’ll be pleasantly surprised. Whilst it may not change your life, it will definitely open your eyes to a great new band who deserve a lot more recognition than they often receive.