SPILL ALBUM REVIEW: THE BLACK PACIFIC – HERE COMES OUR WAVE

THE BLACK PACIFIC
HERE COMES OUR WAVE
DINE ALONE RECORDS

The Black Pacific, a Jim Lindberg (Pennywise) side project, delights in classic Californian skate punk style with Here Comes Our Wave on Dine Alone Records. This punk subgenre, all the rage in the late 90s and early 2000s offers something a little more refined, somewhat melodic, and comes with maturity. The message remains, lacking the hissing angst that comes with age, and is appropriate for those who appreciate this style.

The punk genre has always been a powerful medium for societal commentary, and it seems Lindberg has mastered the art of weaving this narrative with a finesse that invites conversation rather than confrontation. The gentle tension in the vocals suggests a maturity, a metamorphosis born from years of experience and reflection. Balancing such potent messages with an approachable tone is a rare talent. The thick layers of drums and guitar create a rich tapestry of sound that complements the vocals, providing a robust foundation for the storytelling. Lindberg’s dedication to the craft shines through in this collection, showcasing a remarkable ability to play almost all the instruments. This commitment level is commendable and speaks volumes about the passion and personal journey embedded within each song. It’s a testament to the transformative power of music and the enduring relevance of punk as a voice for change.

The first single, “I Think I’m Paranoid”, jolts the listener awake; it’s high tempo, simple and quick, following a rhythmically clear trajectory. Broken by a cleverly placed “yeah”, it is a little over 2 minutes, it is skate punk, easy, fast, and catchy. “No Fun” is lyrically intense, but again, the delivery in vocal prowess is intriguing; it is societal commentary at its finest, but it doesn’t leave you angry. Have we become apathetic in our old age…

My favourite track is “Best Day Ever”, and maybe that is the purpose of this Here Comes Our Wave; it’s giving me a melodic punk vibe, suitably poppy, something to bop along to – which is such a sweet vibe, and something that skate punk has to offer, even if we are pushing middle age.

SPILL FEATURE: I THINK I’M PARANOID – A CONVERSATION WITH JIM LINDBERG OF THE BLACK PACIFIC

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