“On their fourth outing Destroy Boys continue to defy expectations delivering on a serious but also playful punk rock album that packs a serious punch”

by Felix Bartlett | Aug 7, 2024

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The Cali punk legends DESTROY BOYS have been building attention in the scene since their formation in 2015, particularly after their nomination in the 2017 Sacramento Area Music Awards. The band have consistently demonstrated why they deserve this recognition, and their latest album, Funeral Soundtrack #4, is no exception.

Opening with a bang, “Bad Guy,” sets the stage with a promise that the band delivers on with powerful choruses. The song is scrappy and chaotic yet retains enough order to hold itself together. Following this the second track, “Plucked,” released as a single back in April, gained high praise from fans and critics alike. It stands out as one of the album’s highlights, with sarcastic vocals adding depth to the meaningful lyrics. The straightforward punk approach showcases the strengths of Narsai (drums), Alexia (vocals and guitar), and Violet (guitar), embodying DESTROY BOYS’ signature style.

As the album progresses Destroy Boys present the bands slower side, whilst also tapping into Alexia’s Argentinian roots. “Praying” and “Amor Divino,” give Alexia a chance to shine and both offer a dreamier rock feel with the band even treading onto indie territory with “You Don’t Know” rather than punk, demonstrating DESTROY BOYS’ versatility and willingness to experiment with different styles.

With the previously welcomed tracks this wouldn’t be a Destroy Boys album without the bands signature guitar crunching sound. “Shedding Skin” and “You Hear Yes,” a rebellious anthem about battling oppression and embracing individuality, staying true to the core ethos of punk overdeliver on this.

Concluding on a higher note with “Boyfeel,” a laid-back track with a swinging feel, addressing vocalist Alexia Roditis’s experience as a queer, non-binary individual the band provide a personal track that delivers the message with empathy and respect.

As an album Funeral Soundtrack #4 presents itself as arguably the most fun funeral ever (morbid but true). On their fourth outing Destroy Boys continue to defy expectations delivering on a serious but also playful punk rock album that packs a serious punch.

Verdict: 💀💀💀💀

Funeral Soundtrack #4 is set for release on August 9th via Hopeless Records. 

Make sure to catch them at this year’s Reading & Leeds Festival. Grab your tickets now from the website! We’ll see you in the pit!