Hopeless & Addicted
Ambulance, 2019
10/10
I’m pretty embarrassed to say that this was my first time listening to Switzerland’s Slimboy, because, as a longtime fan of all things punk related, this trio parallels the greatness achieved by MXPX, Millencolin or The Ataris and should have already been in my collection.
The title track starts out the EP with a loud and thundering display of gritty melodies and a kinetic rhythm section in the blistering opener, and “‘92” follows with a punky spirit amid a raw execution of anthemic sing-alongs.
Elsewhere, “Hey Brother” recruits fuzzy guitars and alt-rock tendencies that would make J Mascis smile, while the turbulent “Never Let It Die” really showcases the band’s busy, buzzing appeal that flows alongside immediately irresistible hooks. “14.10.15” ends the listen initially sparse but builds into a throbbing, triumphant execution of power and pop.
A fantastic record that embodies all the hallmarks of punk rock, Hopeless & Addicted is nothing if not timeless in its incendiary, reckless and fluid delivery.
Travels well with: The Menzingers- On The Impossible Past; Face To Face- Three Chords And Half A Truth