Since their inception about a decade ago, it's been an interesting career for the guys in The Bronx. Three albums of crunchy, abrasive rock were followed by a pair of faithful mariachi albums (released as Mariachi El Bronx); the mariachi albums garnered more attention than their rock albums, so some wondered whether or not they would bother making a fourth rock record.
Thankfully, they did; The Bronx IV (arriving five years after their third album) may not be quite as unhinged as previous offerings, but their knack for big choruses and tasty riffs is on full display here. Opener The Unholy Hand sets the table right away; it's an all-you-can-eat rock buffet with a massive chorus, threatening "do you wanna die or just come real close?"
Style Over Everything is a huge tune, hearkening back to Sex Pistols, Foo Fighters and about four other bands I can't quite put my finger on, not to mention probably the tastiest chorus on the album. Single Youth Wasted brings fury and melody, seething and soothing simultaneously. In fact, that pretty much sums up the entire album. The Bronx IV is the sound of a band staying true to its violent roots and nudging ever so slightly out of the smoky bars and into the sun.
There isn't really much else to say but go listen to this album at great volume right now, because it's a very early contender for Album Of The Year. A welcome return indeed.
The Bronx IV comes out February 5 via White Drugs/ATO.
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