The Chicago-based noise rock outfit Strapped has officially unleashed their highly anticipated album, ‘Highway Sex Shop,’ delivering a fucking kick ass high-energy garage noise punk that kicks you in the head and has you coming back for more. This 14-track record clocks in at just over 31 minutes of pure, unadulterated adrenaline for your ears. Far from a depressing slog, the album plays like an ecstatic, fuzz-drenched road trip through the wildest corners of the midwestern diy punk scene. It bursts with crunchy guitar tones, explosive drum fills, and a relentlessly playful attitude that turns gritty basement rock into an outright riot.
Three tracks instantly jump out as the crowning jewels of this beautifully rowdy collection. First up is “Boomer Babe,” an infectious anthem penned by the band’s bassist that effortlessly balances driving, heavy rhythms with a hilariously tongue-in-cheek perspective. Next, “56 Me” throttles the listener forward with a blistering raw, unpredictable live energy that the band originally honed on their beloved Bricktown Demos. Finally, “God Please” serves as a cathartic standout, anchoring the midsection of the record with massive walls-of-noise guitar chords and a crashing, desperate drum beat that makes you want to jump into a mosh pit and give someone some love.
If you are looking for an album that pairs high-octane hardcore-punk with an undeniably fun, infectious sense of humor, look no further than this phenomenal project. The true joy of the listening experience comes from the raw, shouting vocals cutting through the glorious layers of feedback and distorted guitars. It is an exhilarating ride from start to finish that cements the band’s place in the modern DIY scene, and you can stream the full release right now on the official Strapped Bandcamp Page.
Links of interest:
https://www.instagram.com/strapped.rnr/
https://strappedchi.bandcamp.com/album/highway-sex-shop