There is something truly magical about the cosmic pipeline of post-hardcore music history. Just the other day, I was casually talking about how I have a signed poster from the legendary band Jawbox from years ago when talking about random bands and stuff at the bar and my buddy brought up to me that J. Robbins himself had recorded a brand-new LP called ‘Never Sleep‘ by Continuals, a kick-ass band straight out of Washington, D.C. Naturally, I slammed my beer and went back home to give it a proper listen with my big ass JBL wireless headphones on, and I am so glad I did because there is genuinely not a single bad song on this entire release.
Recorded at The Magpie Cage Studio in Baltimore, this thirteen-track gem makes complete sense when you look at the stacked talent behind it. The lineup features Ryan Nelson (Guitar, Vocals) from Soccer Team and The Most Secret Method; Melissa Quinley (Keyboards, Vocals) from Soccer Team and Joy Viver; Michael Honch (Bass) from Alarms & Controls, Hunger Artist, Numbers Station, and Samuel S.C.; and Darren Zentek (Drums) from Kerosene 454, Office of Future Plans, and Channels.
With that kind of musical pedigree, the album delivers a non-stop blast of post-punk energy where every track shines, but three standouts immediately stole my heart. Right off the bat, the fast-paced drive of “Late December” sets a punchy tone with awesome subtle piano touches, while the brilliant “Title Goes Here” soars as a dynamic centerpiece with a creative guest violin. Finally, the unapologetic fun of “All About Kissing” completely steals the show thanks to a delightfully unexpected vibraslap accent. Continuals have delivered an endlessly replayable, positive post-punk triumph with ‘Never Sleep‘, making it an absolute must-hear for anyone who loves great music.
Links of interest:
https://www.instagram.com/continuals_dc/
https://continualsdc.bandcamp.com/album/never-sleep
https://dischord.com/release/BF02/never-sleep