Shock Value is a pop punk band based out of Sioux Falls, South Dakota. Their debut album ”When Lightning Strikes” was recently released on the 29th of July, 2023. Filled with high-energy songs that will get your blood pumping this album is a truly remarkable full-length endeavour that is sure to be the first of many more to come from this outfit.
Opening on “Rockstar”, this album immediately settles you into the tone and vibe you have to expect for the remaining nine tracks. The chorus is hooky and the lyric “Ï want to be a rockstar” gets stuck inside your head and you can’t help but catch yourself singing it to yourself. “Crash Landing” is a perfect continuation of a sound that can only be described as a logical sequel to the strength of the opening track. “Dirtbag” gives us a small peek into Shock Value’s ability to slow things down with a heartfelt song with themes reminiscent of classics such as “Creep” by Radiohead. “Expensive” and “Paradise” cushion the middle of this album with their explosive opening and massive guitar sounds. The latter of which in particular maximises its pop/punk roots with an anthemic soundscape to it. “Til I Figure It Out” is my personal favourite from this wonderful album with its light departure from the established norm with a production that emphasises the electronics more and a soundscape that is bold and gorgeous. Following “Til I Figure It Out” is “This Time” with its unforgettable guitar riffs and melodies. This is also the second collaborative song featured on this album with an appearance by Micheal Tucker. “Nightmare” is the last of the traditionally high-octane punk songs in this album and is a certified bop to listen to. Closing out this album is “Its Okay(To Not Be Okay)” which slows things down a little and “My Life Story” which is a gorgeous slow-burning ballad with a climax that’s only fitting of the last track on an album.
The production of “When Lightning Strikes” is sublime and you can really feel the power of the artistry behind every note and lyric in this experience. Each and every song maintains a cohesive theme and a delectable sound that is easily identifiable and sure to become iconic. Shock Value are true talents and they have just put out a 10-track masterpiece that is sure to make waves in the pop-punk scene. So grab your headphones, turn up the volume and lose yourself in this album!
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