Johnny Notebook – Johnny Notebook & 28th Century Mates (Sounds of Subterrania)

It has been a while since I wrote about some Sounds Of Subterrania records, so this particular album comes in handy for today. As far as I am informed, Johnny Notebook is a German duo consisting of former members of Dean Dirg, Toyotas, Metric Eyes, and Tetallica. It’s one of those music projects that will appeal to all the fans of synthpunk sound, but as is usually the case, there’s even more than meets the eye. I am sure this music would be appropriate to even those picky listeners who usually dabble with indie, alternative, and other similar music genres. I will talk about that in a second. First, it’s good to mention Johnny Notebook & 28th Century Mates is their debut full-length release, which carries ten energetic synthpunk compositions. Also, you’ll be blown away by the quality of these tracks. As soon as you press play, you’ll notice Johnny Notebook burst with a sheer experience rarely seen or heard on recordings by much older/experienced artists. They’re not joking around with their music, and Johnny Notebook & 28th Century Mates will unquestionably spark your interest to dive even deeper into this music genre.

Maybe Johnny Notebook explore the vast universe of synthpunk, built upon catchy synth leads, basslines, and beats, but this album carries the essence of punk rock. Honestly, there are no weak spots on this material. It could easily pass as a proper punk rock album if these creative musicians implemented heavy distortion and analog drum beats onto these ideas. It’s nearly mindblowing how Johnny Notebook & 28th Century Mates resembles the late seventies to late eighties synth music scene. However, it also resonates with modern, fresh, unique sonic maneuvers. The duo reimagined a 40 year old genre, and I could easily see how this material could unite fans of synthwave music and punk rockers under one branch. Each composition bursts with many ear-appealing, hypnotic, catchy melodies, harmonies, and leads, supported by equally complex basslines. The synths shine bright in every possible way, but let’s not forget the beats that dictate the tempo and give these numbers more than necessary dynamics and power. Johnny Notebook sounds exciting from scratch to finish, and you will not find better synthpunk music than presented on this particular album. Head to Sounds Of Subterrania for more information about ordering this gem.