Saccharine rock with tantalizing lyrics is the only way to describe Sugarcult's latest release.
With their fourth album, "Lights Out," the group showcases their talent for pounding out high quality punk-pop.
The songs are up-tempo and loaded with meaningful lyrics. Tracks like "Los Angeles" and "Shaking" mirror the successful formula of former hits "Bouncing Off The Walls" and "Memory."
Their complex and ever-changing sound shines in the forefront of "Lights Out." The album emanates drum-popping beats with rock guitar riffs, reverberating over the melodic voice of lead singer Tim Pagnotta. It is a fusion of pop, alternative, punk and rock.
One of the most memorable songs on the album is "Los Angeles," due to its rhythmic vocals and matching beat. Slapping guitar and bass strings sustain the pulse while things are pumped up with a head-thrashing chorus.
Regardless, it's the catchy lyrics that really strengthen the song: "Wanna f*** f*** f*** this up/ Gonna feel feel feel you up/ Had enough, enough, enough's enough/ In the heat of Los Angeles."
"Out of Phase" is heavier than "Los Angeles" and a lot harder than their older hits. The track has an angry tone, with Pagnotta shrieking the lyrics over shuddering guitar riffs and hammering drums, "There's so much useless noise than I can take/ The sounds are getting louder every day / That I can't take/ I'm out phase."
The band continues to prove their worth to fans both in the studio and on stage by not hooking onto any fads or aligning themselves with any one genre.
Photo: Courtesy of Laron Fomby
