It’s a tried and tested formula: fast songs, raw vocals and straightforward chords. Pop-punk is alive and well in the UK, and Trash Boat are testament to this. The band’s second EP ‘Brainwork’ takes the band on a natural progression. The sound remains similar to previous releases but the songs each are a lot more rounded and thought out. This EP is exactly what you might expect from a relatively new pop-punk band who have just signed to Hopeless Records. In fact, it sounds distinctly like a lot of other bands, particularly Handguns, Roam, Seaway, and Trophy Eyes merged into one.
This is not necessarily a bad thing, as Trash Boat take aspects from each of these bands and conglomerate them. The best aspect of this record is that despite the American label connection, the band maintain their English routes. The English accent of vocalist Tobi Duncan is pronounced, and gives the band an edge, setting them apart from other current pop-punk bands.
The standout song of this EP is ‘Perspective’. It’s clear to see why this was chosen as the single release, as lyrically it is elevated above the rest of the record. The song is anthemic and listenable, as well as being emotionally heartfelt and passionately delivered. The final track ‘Eleven’ is also distinctive, much more fast-paced and aggressive, this song in particular sees the band draw out from under the The Story So Far comparison. The song is a perfect end to the EP, with a sing-along finale of the line “a stranger to those who knew me the best”.
It will be interesting to see how the band progresses from here. In particular, if Trash Boat continue to mould their own sound and differentiate themselves, it would be great to hear a full-length record with much more variety. Overall, although this record has a common pop-punk feel, it shows glimpses of a very promising future for a band that will no doubt continue to grow and carve their own shape into the genre.
ALEX HALL