Horror Section – Self Titled

If you’re not familiar with horror-movie themed pop-punk outfit Horror Section you are excused. The four-piece b-movie enthusiasts have existed quietly under the radar for years now, honing their craft quietly in the form of stand alone singles, 7”s and light EPs. The band gained some momentary press upon sharing a split with pop-punk staple Dan Vapid and the Cheats, but are finally ready to take the spotlight on their own with the release of their debut self-titled full-length.

Within a few tracks it’s clear that Horror Section will instantly jive with anyone that’s ever considered themselves a fan of Teenage Bottlerocket, The Riverdales, The Lillingtons, The Riptides, The Copyrights, and related bands. Those familiar with The Lillingtons’ seminal hit Death By Television stand to be hit by an instant nostalgia trip as the campy lyrics and references to late night black and white horror cliches abound. Tracks like “They’re Inside” rattle along at a suspenseful pace, emulating the sense of paranoia, panic and impending doom that defines classic thrillers like The Bodysnatchers. Similar tracks like “First Kill” further the dark sense of urgency and adrenaline, heightened during the brief guitar solos that lead the late-song bridge.

Other tracks are more playful in approach, filled with “woah-oh” type backing vocals and playful melodies. “Forever Gone,” “Somebody Else,” and “Rooms and Echoes” all bound along at various tempos, propelled by singable vocal harmonies and catchy chorus hooks. There’s a retro feel coating most tracks, cementing a solid b-movie aesthetic that makes listening to these tracks just plain enjoyable. Take “Murder,” which exudes a campy vibe not unlike The Riptides classic “Dial M For Murder,” which drew inspiration from similar cinematic sources.

Overall, Horror Section has produced a defining self-titled debut full length well worth some buzz. While the band’s existence beneath the radar for so many years may mean that the album comes and goes quietly, those lucky enough to run across Horror Section will inevitably be in for a treat. But based on the quality and care of this release, it will only be a matter of time until this hidden gem of a group garners the attention of pop punk enthusiasts everywhere.