Pop-punk with a doo-wop twist

Hailing from Madison, Wisconsin, Masked Intruder is one of the more unique looking bands in the midwest. Shrouded in mystery, the band utilizes colored ski masks to hide their identities. Despite their masked appearance, they don’t seem to be scary or intimidating like Slipknot or Mudvayne. These disguises are used in a more tongue-in-cheek fashion. It is similar to something Ok Go would employ. The disguises are fun, playful and color coordinated, and this silliness is apparent in their music at times as well. Even so, Masked Intruder is more reminiscent instrumentally of Green Day or A Day To Remember. Masked Intruder certainly incorporates elements of humor into their music, but they are not to be taken as a joke as a whole.

The band claims to have formed from a few of the members meeting in prison, so you might want to really consider the aforementioned sentiment. These guys have soul, which is evident in their doo-wop and punk rock hybrid of a sound, but they clearly also have an attitude. Of course, this story could also be fabricated or used to enhance their image. Their masked theme oozes of mystery, and they even have a thematic police officer that chases them in their music videos. The truth remains a mystery.

As far as the music is concerned, several of their songs incorporate a ’50s doo-wop style swing that is light and catchy. “Mine All Mine” is a melodic love ballad with a charming swing style implemented on the verses. This blend of the two styles is done almost effortlessly. Masked Intruder is clearly in touch with the roots of both punk and jazz music. The walking bassline and backup vocals on the track clearly show off how each band member is very synchronized in their rhythmic timing. This is impressive when you consider how their parts are very different. This togetherness makes the band sound all the more powerful when they actually play something in unison. “Dream a Little Dream” is another highlight on this record. The track is a melodic love ballad with a punk-flavored attitude. On this track, Masked Intruder once again prove that they are much more than your typical punk band. Outside of just their appearance, they are versatile musicians.

Overall, Masked Intruder’s music is catchy and light-hearted. III showcases impressive backup vocal parts incorporated all throughout each song. Their masked gimmick and colored coordinated outfits add to their stage presence but ultimately draw in interested fans by giving the group a mysterious aura. Even so, their image is just one aspect to the band. The band’s versatile nature and charming songwriting will keep listeners interested. Hopefully, Masked Intruder can continue to prove themselves in the years to come.