Late Stage Optimism
Self-Released, 2021
10/10
The Los Angeles duo Broken Baby made me a fan with their 2018 self-titled album, and this sophomore effort further cements Amber Bollinger and Alex Dezen as one of the most exciting outfits in the area of punk, alt-rock and post-punk as they tear through 11 charged and well thought out anthems.
“Get The Piss Up” starts the listen with a thumping version of glam-rock, where Bollinger’s smooth vocals howl as well as soar alongside the bouncy bass work and punchy drumming, and “Meaniac” follows with soulful backing vocals contributing to the pop friendly climate that recruits a nostalgic feel.
Further along, “Die! Die! Die!” brings plenty of melody to the post-punk fueled delivery where Bollinger’s gritty yet tuneful pipes make a big impression, while “He Likes Me” is a playful album highlight that shows much diversity that you could dance to while still being rooted in rugged rock territory. “Meat Week”, another exceptional track, then showcases Adam Popick’s incredible bass prowess in the protest anthem that’s quite forthright.
“Don’t Be Rude!” lands near the end and leads with brass before transitioning to a swift and scrappy garage rocker, and “Hand Heat” exits the listen with bass from Whynot Jansveld, as both a cautious and adventurous approach unfolds that’s as pretty as it is memorable.
Certainly a ferocious outing that just oozes melody, too, Broken Baby harness the spirit of legends like Bikini Kill, as Bollinger has experienced first hand plenty of sexual harassment from her time in Hollywood. Dezen’s got a lengthy and glowing resume in the music industry, and together the pair are clearly proving just why they’re selling out shows in their hometown, and, soon enough I would assume, anywhere else they go, too.
Travels well with: Foxy- Can’t Stop Us/X-Ray Spex Tribute; The Hollywood Stars- Sound City