A most enjoyable rollercoaster of an album.
I was really looking forward to this, the fourth album from the crazy Swedes Bonafide and from the opening bars of title track 'Bombo' I knew it was going to be worth the wait. The band has been growing in popularity and stature over the last few years and things are definitely on the up for them.
If you're a fan of classic Status Quo (you remember – when they were good?) and AC/DC, then you will love Bonafide. Never taking themselves too seriously, their songs are about drinking, women and parties, fast cars and heartbreak. Sometimes with a bluesy edge, they just keep pumping out these catchy, riff-laden tracks. This is the third album produced by gruff and gravelly vocalist Pontus Snibb and yet again, he's played a blinder. Ok, so it's not Pink Floyd or Dream Theater, but it sounds the business.
'Bad As Clint' (although I did question whether it should be 'Bad Ass Clint' – was this a pressing label fault?) starts with a nod to Ennio Morricone and a whistle from The Good, The Bad & The Ugly – now they couldn't have picked anything more appealing to me as I'm a huge Eastwood fan. I absolutely love 'D.T.R.D.' which stands for "Drink The Rider Dry" – clever composition and I would say probably one of my favourite songs from Bonafide so far. 'Harmony', which I believe is the first single from the album, is a glorious and haunting love song with perfect harmonies in the chorus. Ok, so they're not doing anything new, but what they ARE doing is outstanding.
From beginning to end, 'Bombo' is a most enjoyable rollercoaster of an album. This is one to have you movin' and a groovin' from the outset. Can't wait to see them on tour later this month with UK Stalwarts The Quireboys. If you get the chance, check them out – you won't regret it.
Sue Ashcroft
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