Songs On Repeat: November 2023🎆
Here's a round up of the songs (and albums) old and new we've been enjoying at Click Roll Boom HQ this month.
Amy:
The Wonder Years - The Greatest Generation (Album - 2013)
This is my absolute favourite album of all time and is never far from my radar. However, having attended 2 "The Greatest Generation" 10th anniversary shows in the last 10 days, it has become a complete obsession. I fully credit, as I know a lot of people do, the record with saving my life. It's relatable, comforting, like a friend who understands.
The Wonder Years are a phenomenal band, with every album being a work of pure class and a valuable step along the band's path – even "Get Stoked On It!" which I know Soupy hates. But "The Greatest Generation" shines just that bit brighter, standing as a testament to the pure quality of The Wonder Years. Thirteen tracks of incredible songwriting, thirteen beacons of hope for anyone going through a hard time, packed full of iconic riffs and high-energy sounds, as well as being catchy as hell.
"Madelyn," a wonderful acoustic track sandwiched in-between full-speed pop punk, is a glorious showcase of Soupy's incredible, distinctive voice. "The Greatest Generation" really is the greatest album of our generation, evoking so many feelings, memories, and emotions – the band's finest hour.
Blake Cateris - Concentrate (2023)
Blake's a legend in the making, a top bloke, and a talented musician. 'Concentrate' is the most up-tempo, catchy song about how much growing up sucks you'll probably ever hear.
Therapy? - Pounding of Hope and Glory (2023)
My favourite track from the new record "Hard Cold Fire" – it's gritty, grungy, and addictive. Raw, with powerful hooks and a contagious energy, it's everything fans have come to expect from T?
Big Country - Normal (1998)
A rarity for the band, 'Normal' might digress from the expected 5+ minute song durations, but it certainly packs a punch. Combining new wave with a more punk energy, Stuart's voice on this one is magnificent with a real rawness and a slightly Americana twang. It is bright and catchy, and I was in love from the first listen.
Half Man Half Biscuit - Midnight Mass Murder (2022)
You can always rely on the Biscuits to produce the best satire! Set to the tune of a terrace anthem, 'Midnight Mass Murder' pokes fun at those who make the yearly pilgrimage to church around Christmas but never set foot in a religious establishment the rest of the year – "where were you in mid-July."
No Use For a Name - Friends of the Enemy (2002)
EMO perfection! Angsty, cathartic, and fueled by destructive emotion. Tony Sly had one of the best voices you'll hear in punk. Filled with raw passion but beautiful, melodic, and wonderfully emotional.
Bad Religion - The World Won't Stop (1989)
Because I'm still obsessed with Bad Religion! The songwriting is exceptional, incredibly poignant. I particularly like the line, "You're only as elegant as your actions let you be" – a great portrayal of reaping what you sow; however, you behave is how those around you will behave towards you.
Kempsey:
My repeat for this month is looking a little bit different with my stats leaning towards entire albums and EPs :) So Let's have a look shall we!
MÃ¥neskin- RUSH! (ARE YOU COMING?) (2023)
This album is absolutely addictive with soulful vocalisations, decorative guitar riffs and furious iconic bass lines. Each song is full of personality, so fun. There’s romance and charisma in every lyric. They type of album to hype you up, fill you with confidence.
Alesana - A Place Where The Sun Is Silent (2011)
The 24 track album is really long and hefty with an average of 4-5 minutes per song and takes a consumer's patience but for the average Alesana fan, this is just a breeze. There is everything you need, wondrous harmonising vocals, infusion of waltzes, piano and orchestral pieces. Brutal breakdowns and harsh vocals as well as complex concepts. Beautiful :)
Trancend - Bangers No Mash! (2022)
This little EP is an absolute gem of everyone’s favourite trance and dance songs with a twist of progressive metal. Monstrous guitar riffs, thunderous drums and powerful yet ethereal vocals. It’s in the title all Bangers No Mash!
Scott:
Foo Fighters - Wheels (2009)
Free - The Stealer (1973)
Queen - Hammer to Fall (Live) (1986)
AC/DC - Shoot to Thrill (1980)
Aerosmith - Dude (Looks Like a Lady) (1987)
Aerosmith - Sweet Emotion (1975)