Made In Japan
Self-Released, 2020
8/10
The New York City legends The Supertones don’t disappoint on this studio live album, where they offer us their versions of Japanese pop hits that are reinvented in their always top notch, surf rock ways.
“Sayonara Siberian Road” starts the listen with shimmering guitar work and punchy drumming as the very agile surf-rock flows with much melody, and “Geronimo” follows with a calmer spirit of sparking guitar tone and warm chord progressions.
Moving towards the middle, the bouncy and playful “Message In Rouge” will likely get your body moving with its upbeat approach, while “Blue Star Dust” buzzes with a slight jangle that seems like it could soundtrack an action flick. “Hula”, one of the album’s best, then emits a reflective quality amid the hypnotic bass.
Residing near the end, “The Rocket Man” gets a bit groovy in its stylish demeanor, and “Subway” exits the listen with a firm and timeless appeal that will make you want to grab a board and hit the first wave that comes your way.
Most of us have never heard the originals of these songs, and that’s quite alright; under the expert playing of The Supertones it’s quite likely they resonate better than ever here anyway, and the sound quality is incredible for being live- further testament to them being masters of their craft.
Tim Sullivan (lead guitar), Seth Lipscher (rhythm guitar), Simon Chardiet (bass, production) and J.J. Murphy (drums) are in fine form on Made In Japan, and their signature sound is as inviting as ever, and a must for those who peruse instrumental rock.
Travels well with: The Neptunas- Mermaid A Go Go; The Fleshtones- Face Of The Screaming Werewolf