Bronx album IV
The Bronx aren't a band that stands still, with each album they've evolved their sound - not drastically but gradually - morphing from a full on old school hardcore punk outfit into what is on this new album essentially a heavy rock n roll band. I never thought I'd say these words with a Bronx record and I hate to do it, but, this album is a grower; it took a few listens to connect with unlike the immediate punch of their previous three albums so where does that leave us?
Well, starting with The Unholy Affair the feel of the album is set up straightaway - rolling, danceable drums, foot stomping riffage and sing along vocal lines, it's nicely melodic and very, very grooveable it's just that its quite straightforward and a final, definite move away from their sound of old, so takes a bit of getting used to, but don't be scared off, it's well worth sticking around to hear the rest. While they'd started this transition on Bronx III, that record still had more of a scuzzed-up, raw sound which is all but absent here giving the tracks a cleaner feel - they're not so much grabbing you by the scruff of the neck as inviting you on to the dance floor with an outstretched hand.
The Bronx have always had the knack of getting you moving but here it's particularly noticeable throughout with most tunes having a consistently grooveable tempo, that's not to say its samey, there's still enough variation to keep it interesting but it is has a very even tone. There are still a few standout tracks too, mostly from the latter stages of the album - Ribcage is particularly catchy and grooveable with an outstanding sing along chorus, top stuff. Under The Rabbit is another corker, Matt lets his vocals fly on this one and also coming recommended is Valley Heat. The only track which doesn't really fit on the record is Life less Ordinary - a totally different pace and feel from the rest (possibly a Mariachi El Bronx track not used before?) it slows things down and seems out of place here.
Some interesting developments in camp Bronx; they've still managed to produce a more than decent record, which has been keeping us coming back for more since the promo dropped through our door and we reckon it's definitely worth forking out your hard earned cash for, get in there.