SLACKRR - SET THE NIGHT ON FIRE
We live in a complicated world, things are ever-changing and nothing is straightforward anymore. If only we could go back to simpler times when songs had that feel-good factor, music was for dancing to and pop-punk was pure. Never fear, SLACKRR is here with a new album, Set The Night On Fire.
The album, their third full length, opens up with a strong track that immediately drags the listener into their world and sets them up for the rest of the record. The title track tune starts with some supposed conversational debate in the studio before jumping into the hooky main track with a chorus that will be loved, whether you want to or not.
‘This Time’ is up next as one of the band's singles it may sound familiar… even if you haven't heard it before. This is because it smacks of a SLACKRR that can be remembered from earlier records. Also, as the song is unadulterated pop-punk, it could easily be a song from a different band circa 2000 - 2010.
To complete the opening trio comes ‘Holding On,’ music with a message, (and a nice montage music video to boot). Another song with a simple message rolls on through afterwards ‘Leave It All Behind.’ These high energy tracks are perfect for jumping around to and will be a joy to see and hear live.
The same goes for ‘Just So You Know’ and what could be the karaoke classic of the future ‘Ebb & Flow.’ Tracks like these are bound to wheedle their way onto many playlists and before listeners know it they will have them on repeat. One thing is for sure, the songs are not going anywhere anytime soon except through fan's ears and straight into their hearts, as much loved tunes.
The great thing about this album is that every song is catchy in all ways, whether it's the drums from Joe Sammons, the badass bass lines from Cait Bowyer or the sing-along lyrics from Scotty Perry it will have people dangling on the end of the line in no time at all.
Some songs like ‘Lie To Me’ give cause to look back to the good old days again whilst others like ‘Where You Left Me’ will inspire looking forward, to something a little heavier. Both tracks show off Scotty’s skill at songwriting and the band's skill at putting together the rest of the elements that fit together like pieces in the puzzle.
SLACKRR have already played over 550 shows across the globe and are no strangers to festival stages, and rooms of all sizes. They are very connected to their fans and know exactly what it is they want to hear, that however is not where the real talent lies. The real trick is producing something that's enjoyable to completely new listeners and not just die-hard fans. A trick they pulled off with ease.
The collection of perfectly balanced songs comes to a close with ‘Change Of Pace’ which is one slightly. Something orchestrated to go out with a bang, and a big chorus. The pop-punk three-piece are setting a high standard with their latest album.
If you're in the mood to be transported back to the 00s then this is the album for you as every song is like a portal back in time, to that oh-so-better place.
Cat Wiltshire
★★★★★