Tsunami: a huge destructive wave. Bomb: an explosive device fused to detonate under specified conditions. Now relate both of these definitions to music, and it will become clear why this band has its name. The instruments are like huge, destructive waves of sharp guitar licks and vigorous drum beats crashing behind the soft, yet at times volatile vocals that detonate like an explosive bomb of passion. “The Ultimate Escape” is the band's first full-length release, but you would never be able to tell by listening to it. This album is so laden with unyielding talent it sounds more like a sophomore effort than a debut. But Tsunami Bomb has been steadily climbing the ranks of recognition for several years now. They recently switched from Tomato Head to Kung Fu Records, just finished a string of dates on the Vans Warped Tour, and have their first headlining show in LA on Sept. 21st at the Troubador.
The album starts out with a track that may be familiar to old fans. It's a revamped version of the old demo “Take The Reins“, and although I like the demo version a little better, the new one does not fail to please. Next up is “Russian Roulette” which is one of my favorites on the album. It has that classic punk rock vibe to it, but at the same time is very melodic.
A song or two later, you get hit with “Roundabout“, which I am hoping will be the first single. With classic new wave sounding Cars-ish guitar riffs, it's insanely catchy and would be perfect for a radio debut. This album really captures the essence of Tsunami Bomb. The boys are at their peak with some really incredible work on guitars and drums, and Agent M's voice is better than ever. The band's amazing diversity and capabilities are really put on display this time around.
“The Simple Truth” is the only slow song on the album, a change of pace for Tsunami Bomb, and is a little reminiscent of the Blondie hit “In the Flesh“. This song is completely different from anything they've done before, but none-the-less the song came out beautifully. After this sweet, wistful break, you're thrown right back into the pure-punk, mosh-inducing, 47-second long wrath of “Count Me Out“, which is about going against the grain of trendiness. Closing the album is the sing-along poppy-rock anthem “Swimming Through Molasses“. Evoking the feeling of being “stuck”, I have a feeling many will be able to relate to this one.
Overall this album is sure to gratify the need for good music; it will keep old fans happy, and entice new ones. If you are fan of their first EP “The Invasion From Within“, be sure to pick this one up too, you won't be disappointed!
Miss Doubtfire
shannon [at] unearthed [dot] com
