Bambix – Club Matuchek

I guess this CD was originally released around two years ago overseas in Europe through Go-Kart Europe, and now the label has decided to finally bring it over here. I also guess that Bambix used to be an all girl band, but have now dropped down to just a trio with a female singer. This really makes no difference, other than the fact that us North Americans had to wait two years to hear it, the album is still just the album it was a few years ago, and it is quite good.

The sound is full of catchy hooks, quick, speedy bass lines and songs like No. 1 have a lightning fast drum beat to get the feet moving along with the music. Still, the biggest selling point of Club Matuchek comes from the distinctly unfemale-female vocals. They aren’t poppy or ultra polished like most female singers, but much more harsh and worn out than the average female vocalist. They are lower than you would expect but are still distinctly female which is a nice sound to hear – and a sound which compliments the music nicely. To top it all off is her Dutch-English accent, adding yet another little flare to the vocal delivery. It works even better once the male vocals come in the background to make a slight contrast.

It’s hard to pigeon-hold them under certain category as they have some elements of melodic hardcore, some elements of pop-punk, and some slight street-punk too. It’s music that Go-Kart has popularized over it’s history, and a sound that would entertain even the biggest punk rock purist. Medea Medusa, Little Less Drunk, Revolution and So Sorry Song jump out of the speakers instantly with insanely catchy hooks and choruses, and vocal melodies that get you singing along. Hell, they even double layered the female vocals on Medea Medusa for very memorable sound.

Club Matuchek isn’t life changing, or revolutionary – but it is a great punk rock album with a female singer that never becomes irritating. It’s definitely worth checking out if you get the chance; especially if you were ever a fan of Tilt.