The Bouncing Souls - Comet

Asbury Park's Bouncing Souls are at it again with a new album entitled "Comet". Being from South Jersey, I have listened to this band since basically the 6th grade and seen them countless times. 2009 saw the band celebrating it's 20th Anniversary, and released a new song on the 1st of each month. These 12 songs were eventually released as "Ghosts On The Boardwalk". The rockish sound they gravitated towards was very similar to that of Gaslight Anthem and Bruce Springsteen, while still displaying some punk flair. While I've been a fan of basically all the band has produced, this was definitely my least favorite. "Comet" is definitely an attempt at upping the punx, with Descendents drummer Bill Stevenson recording the effort at his Blasting Room Studios in Chicago.

Stevenson's production prowess become apparent from the opening palm muted guitar of album opener "Baptized", one of the more solid punk ragers on the album. Drums are up front and the kick/snare dominates the mix. Bassist Bryan Klein's bass tone shines through as always, and his playing never conservative with root notes but rather scales that dance throughout each track. Pete Steinkompf's guitar playing is consistent from album to album, varying from solid power chords to Springsteen-esque leads. Frontman Greg Attonito still has his higher register punk swagger in full effect on "Comet", with highlights on songs such as "Baptized" and "Static".

The aforementioned rock sound the band adapted to on "Ghosts On The Boardwalk" is still present on some songs, especially closer "Ship In A Bottle". "We Love Fun" sounds like something you'd hear on a Kids Bop album, but in a good way. (I'm confused too) At the end of the day, this is a Bouncing Souls record that should tide fans over for the next 2 years or so. Not to mention the limited vinyl variants Chunksaah put out look fantastic and the packaging is stellar for all you wax nerds out there. "Comet" is out now via Rise Records.

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