The Von Tramps – GO LP (SBÄM)

Here’s a treat for all the pop-punk fans out there. As you probably know, SBÄM recently unleashed several recordings in a very short period, so maybe you missed some of them. The Von Tramps have been on my radar since they signed to SBÄM, but somehow I properly listened to their recent full-length for the first time a couple of days ago, and I was blown away by their ideas, musicianship, and energy. The band has previously released notable recordings like The Future Is Female LP, Sun’s Out: Strung Out! EP, and several singles such as 14b, LA, Sara, Your House, and Sunflower. Still, it seems to GO is their best recording to date.

GO carries twelve excellent numbers that will satisfy even the pickiest fans of pop-punk music. The Von Tramps explore contemporary pop-punk sound but also pay homage to the late 90s and early 00s scenes. Of course, the result of these experimentations is more than evident because there are no weak tracks on this one. The band and the label heavily promoted GO with singles such as 2AM and Lo Mein, which vividly showcase their direction as a band, but the true essence of their brilliance hides on the remainder of the album. Tracks like GO, Goldfish Memories, Live Fast, and Someone’s Gonna Get Mad Today are the best tracks in my opinion, but of course, that doesn’t mean the remainder of the album isn’t good. I also adore how The Von Tramps arranged the tracklist, so you’ll notice how the material goes from profoundly energetic to more mellow tracks and once again gets back to those vigorous pop-punk songs.

Still, The Von Tramps are not only about pop-punk sound. Quite the contrary, you’ll hear some straightforward melodic punk rock numbers, indie punk ballads, songs enhanced by elements of reggae music, and even some commercial pop moments, but more in terms of arrangements and production. The Von Tramps are pros in assembling pop-punk hits, and there’s no doubt about it. You’ll be surprised by the sheer amount of excellent riffs, chord progressions, melodies, harmonies, themes, singalongs, and divine vocal lines. This band nailed this full-length, and you’ll love it too if you give it a listen. Head over to the SBÄM store for more information about ordering this pop-punk gem.