Album Reviews

After having released a slew of singles that were a fun distraction from the shitstorm that was 2020, Randells have now teamed up with Monster Zero, Waterslide Records and Memorable But Not Honorable for the release of their debut full-length, ‘Kicks’.

Right in the opening track, this trio from Sweden makes it very clear that all they need is some bubblegum punk. Which is exactly what they crank out over the course of twelve songs. They are pretty much stuck in the same gear for the entire album, which makes it all sound a bit same-y. But honestly, that’s no biggie. What’s not to like about sun-drenched melodies, buzzing guitars and the occasional surf-y riff that is thrown in for fun? ‘Holiday In The Sun’ sounds like the Beach Boys getting it on with Alkaline Trio, while Randells let their inner Ramones shine on songs like ‘I Don’t Wanna Be A Deadbeat’ and ‘Karen’. This album may end with ‘End Of The Summer’, but I’m pretty sure I’ll still be blasting this one long after.

Kicks by Randells tracklist:

1. Kicks    
2. Pick Me Up    
3. I Can't Make It In The Bedroom    
4. Holiday In The Sun    
5. I Don't Wanna Be A Deadbeat    
6. Cheese    
7. Karen    
8. Gum In My Hair    
9. Elvis In A UFO    
10. I Don't Wanna Go    
11. El Mundo Loco    
12. End Of The Summer