Brilliant, enticing and supercharged
The Bouncing Souls released their twelfth studio album, Ten Stories High, and with it returns the band’s classic punk sound. Their first original studio album since 2016’s Simplicity, the record is a highlight reel for each member, allowing their instrument or vocals to be emphasized from song to song.
The static-infused chorus of the album’s title track opens softly, but all the seemingly bottled-up energy releases into a fury of thrashing toms and supercharged riffs at a moment’s notice. Lead singer Greg Attontio feeds on this energy as his declarations of wanting to be heard finally take shape.
The band works this album like a car. Drummer George Rebelo controls the speed with precision. On “Back To Better,” Rebelo races over his kit during the feverous verses before quickly transitioning into a more straightforward drum pattern during the chorus, letting bassist Bryan Kienlen and guitarist Pete Steinkopf shine through.
“Andy and Jackie” is the highlight of the record. Kienlen’s driving bassline opens the song while Steinkopf’s guitar floats on top. A pre-chorus breakdown reminiscent of Catfish and The Bottlemen interrupts the song’s movement, and Attontio breaks out again alongside bass flourishes and single-chord strums.
Its lyrics ponder about shared interests, being in the same place at the same time and love. A speaking section covers the second topic refreshingly, making it seem like an inner monologue unleashed. Attontio finishes the song with a final reflection on the time spent together, doubling as a realization and a statement about the band: “We didn’t have to go alone/ you, you’ve become my home.”
Ten Stories High carries more melodic vocals reminiscent of their 2000s albums Anchors Aweigh and The Gold Record. Attontio’s vocals are broadcast clearly on “True Believer Radio,” with underlying harmonies safely transmitting underneath. Raw vocal power can be considered Attontio’s calling card on this record.
Choruses allow Attontio to belt without fear, while the verses spotlight his ability to step back and detail the song’s exposition. The songs read like novels; with Attontio, they go from plain short stories to exciting reflections on love, life and legacy.
“Vin and Casey” has a similar racing feel as “Back To Better,” but Steinkopf’s up-and-down riffs steal the show through the first half. Rebelo seems to challenge Steinkopf to keep up with his pace, and they match each other throughout. At least until a significant tempo slowdown again forfeits the show to Attontio’s vocals as he reaches for the notes to say goodbye.
With over 30 years of experience to their name, The Bouncing Souls have truly perfected their punk craft and continue to evolve vocally to remain an enticing listen again and again. Everyone got their chance to shine, but the group still blended well, calling listeners to pick up the pace with their brilliant transitional tempo changes. Like its title, this album remains Ten Stories High above the rest.
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