Cherry Bomb’s latest album is an engaging and melodic listen that drips with charisma from every pore. With a clear set of inspirations and a distinct intention, the group set out to create a certain vibe and went a long way to ensure that all the elements are in place. Let’s discuss the final results.
A band based in Germany, specifically in Frankfurt, Cherry Bomb are a five-piece rock outfit who set out to recreate the colorful charm of 80s rock. with inspirations that vary from Whitesnake, to Guns N Roses, to -of course- Scorpions, the music on Sunset BLVD is a torrential stream of distorted rhythm guitars, pounding beats, guttural frontman presence, and touching melodies. All reminiscent of the sonic palette they are going after.
The solid grooves that constitute pretty much all of the album’s songs are greatly fitting to long, summery drives along the coastline. Led by the unmistakable presence of a true rock frontman, Chris Nuttz’s voice is a mainstay source of unending energy that makes each song a distinct experience, regardless of musical style. Whether it is a serious of infectious riffs like the aggressive starter ‘Love Hurts’ or ‘Y.D.F.O.C’, sensual rock ballads like ‘Especially’ or ‘Guardian Angel’, or groovy, melodic pieces of pure unbridled rock such as the title song, ‘Caribbean Summer’, or the endlessly upbeat ‘Whiskey A Go Go’, Nuttz’s vocals are a reliable driving force that pushes the songs forward with his gritty voice and concise rhythm guitar playing.
Alongside him, the rhythm section composed of Ben Dover (is that really his name?) on the drums and Don Diego Duarte on the bass is doing an amazing job supporting the classical hard rock arrangement with a solid backbone. Neil N. Blomee’s keys are an invaluable addition behind Nuttz’s chugged power chord rhythm, helping fill out the empty spaces with the rich textural pads and the occasional melodic line here and there. The last piece of the puzzle are the terrific and flamboyant, distorted guitar solos of Vince Vixxen, injecting most of the album’s songs with moments of sizzling lead guitar hotness.
Suset BLVD is a fun album that’s shock full of addictive energy, memorable melodies, and juicy, well-balanced mixes. A great reminder of what made rock music such an impactful force during that time, and a fantastic representation of it in its best guise. Inspired by some of the all-time greats, Cherry Bomb have done a great job catching that 80s vibe.
