In addition to the cryptic facade of their confusing name, Boston foursome Ape Up!’s sound only heightens initial bewilderments and blasts them to a whole new level. On its most superficial layer, the band’s instrumentals might be described as an fast-paced onslaught of guitar-angles with hardcore punk roots showing up, with the abrasive vocal attack that drives the songs only heightens the sense of aggressivity. However, numerous listens allow for intricate musicianship to emerge out of the uninviting exterior and reveal the eclectic spine of their sound.

‘Kemosabe’ is a collection of short and sweet outbursts that provide for both amateurs of face-melting noise rock and those whose sensibilities lie closer to the poppier side of punk. In fact, the only comparison this writer can make, at least instrumentally, to any band of this decade is Birmingham trio Johnny Foreigner, though Boston legends Pixies seems more appropriate. The common element between Ape Up! and these bands is the hectic bastardization of a catchy pop spine, yet these new lads add the most robust punk exterior of all of them.

From the frantic opening of ‘Nothing Serious’ to the final notes of ‘Tejas’ by way of ‘Drainbow’s surprisingly sweet turn (backed up by the filthiest synth sound in existence), ‘Kemosabe’ pulls no punches and thrives on sheer energy, but it should also be commended for its excellent musicianship and knack for catchy angular licks. The sharp listener will be rewarded with every spin of the album as the harsh abrasive surface gives way to their unique blend of jangly-guitars along with a punk heart. If anything, the distinctive melody-within-the-chaos of their album suggests riotous live shows. Dig in.

4/5

‘Kemosabe’ by Ape Up! is available now on Count Your Lucky Stars Records.

Ape Up! links: Facebook|Bandcamp

Words by James Berclaz-Lewis