2009 was the first year that I started properly paying attention to music, and even though I vaguely remember the critical acclaim that Japandroids first album Post-Nothing received, I never actually listened to it until recently. Clocking in at only 30 minutes that spans over 8 tracks, it doesn’t sound like much on paper but it’s an awesome half hour. It’s raw, lo-fi production, catchy riffs and spectacular drums make for an incredible LP that understandably.
After 3 years, Celebration Rock has just been released and it’s fair to say that their band of loyal fans will be impressed with the new release. Celebration Rock has taken what was good about Post-Nothing and built on it so well. Taking the brilliant drumming of David Prowse and the wonderful riffs and vocals of Brian King and formed them into high octane anthems.
From a structural point of view the album is very similar to the last. 8 tracks, just over half an hour. However something about the album that is much more mature, more developed. The production is similar, but the songwriting has much more depth to it. King has much better lyrics than before, and Prowse has taken his drumming to another level on this album.
Aside from the technical aspects of the album, the passion and pace of this album is second to none. Songs ‘Younger Us’ and ‘Fire’s Highway’ were particular highlights with wonderful choruses and catchy verses. There is another highlight in ‘House that Heaven Built’, a five minute epic that will take a lot of beating for song of the year.
Post-Nothing was eight brilliant songs about the physical and mental toll that being in a touring band has on you, Celebration Rock is exactly was it says. It’s a Celebration of being in a band. The 2 members are the bare bones of what makes up any modern rock band and they make it work so well. After the last note has rung out on continuous thunder, you’ll want to listen again, and again. It’s another fantastic album. It’s boisterous, raw and beautifully paced and anyone that has the pleasure of listening to this album will surely be fans for a long time.
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By Daniel Clayton
Dance Yrself Clean
