Review - The Black Pacific - Self-Titled - SideOneDummy Records

Jim Lindberg has set the stakes high on his first musical outing since announcing his departure from Pennywise last summer. Fortunately for fans of his long (and still) running previous band, 'The Black Pacific' offers much of what made Pennywise an icon of the skate-punk genre.

Opener "The System" rips from the get-go, calling to mind early Bad Religion and surely kicking fans of Pennywise into instant relief mode. "When It's Over" hints at the creative differences that led to his departure from Fletcher and company, while "Kill Your Idols" finds Lindberg adopting a Keith Morris-worthy croon.

The lone, and admittedly somewhat petty, complain to be lodged at the album refers to the song titles - "Defamer" runs into "Ruinator", sounding more like UFC fighter nicknames than high-octane punk rock tunes, and the self-explanatory "Put Down Your Weapons" seems a bit like preaching to the choir. Still, these are very minor gripes with an exceptionally solid album, and guitar shredding sprint of melody-heavy tracks such as "Almost Rising" will have you stage diving in your living room between hitting 'repeat' on your IPOD.

One thing is for sure, this is no self-indulgent 'solo outing' here; Lindberg's vocal style is still its distinct gruff self, barking about necktie-clad businessmen with a discernable sneer, and the fast-paced tempos make 'The Black Pacific' a perfect soundtrack for skating in abandoned swimming pools. All in all, the albums nails a worthy new chapter into an already established career. Not bad for a self-described 'punk rock dad'.

A freelance writer, journalist, editor and all around info hound, Philip Hicks has been creating content since birth it seems. As an expert in a number of industries and subjects, Philip offers tremendous insight to help readers better understand a variety of topics. Some of Philip's work can be seen on ApartmentHomeLiving.com, Altercation.net as well as a variety of other web and non-web locations. With a mind on always staying topical, Philip always strives to entertain, enlighten and engage. Enjoy!