Unashamedly poppy, the new album from Portsmouth’s Stayawakes “Pop Dreamz” is the perfect blend of rock n roll and radio-friendly hooks.
Review: The Stayawakes – “Pop Dreamz”
Pop punk was once a big deal, especially during the late 90’s, early 2000’s. With the likes of American bands Sum 41 and Blink-182 taking the airwaves by storm.
However, it was a genre I’ve always had an issue with, description wise at least. Punk isn’t supposed to be pop and the world of pop isn’t ever going to be true rock n roll.
Luckily then, the Stayawakes are more in the vein of those other bands I’ve always loved regardless. Appealing to fans of the less-punkier attitudes of Ash and Feeder in particular. Both of whom have always indulged in well-deserved chart success, without losing sight of their own audience.
The same can be said for Stayawakes “Pop Dreamz”. Since their debut “Dogs and Cats/Living Together”, the Pompey ladz have continued on their quest to conquer the pop/rock crossover. It truly came into fruition with what surely would be a Xmas mainstream hit, in “Let’s Stayawake this Christmas Eve”.
The Stayawakes – Unashamedly Poppy
It’s no surprise then that Stayawakes “Pop Dreamz” comes with lashings of songs about love and lyrics their teenage-selves of yesteryear would be proud of. In particular “Lovestruck” being a perfect example and album highlight, sounding as if the marvellous Tim Wheeler (Ash) had been right there in the studio.
As for “Power Pop Massacre” it’s another slice of classic punk pop, meanwhile “Oh Telephone” has a touch of “All the Small Things” by the aforementioned Blink-182.
I’ve never really liked Blink-182, but there’s no denying it’s a catchy tune. Which is exactly what the Stayawakes are so remarkably good at. Songs to sing-along to as they seemingly etch themselves into your memory bank. As such, all the while you’re reciting “Lovestruck” from earlier in the release, it’s soon time for a few “yeah yeahs” during the penultimate “Down for Love”.
Although as I conclude this review of the Stayawakes “Pop Dreamz”, I could have just as easily summed it up by quoting the very last song. After all – it’s cool, it’s rad. It’s the Stayawakes.
“Pop Dreamz” by the Stayawakes.
Available to order from their official Bandcamp page right here.
