Backyard Superheroes - Mass Hysteria
6-28-24
Backyard Superheroes are back with a brand-new full-length album titled Mass Hysteria, delivering 31 minutes of electrifying ska, pop punk, and rock 'n' roll across 10 dynamic tracks. This energetic nine-piece band—comprising Josh, Tam, Shelly, Greg, Nakul, Gary, Brian R, Brian S, and Casey—is renowned for their larger-than-life sound and wildly chaotic live performances. Recorded at Tangerine Drive Studios and expertly mixed and mastered by David Irish at Pot of Gold Recording, Mass Hysteria is being released on vinyl by Jump Up Records. Fans have already been treated to two vibrant singles from the album: the title track “Mass Hysteria” and “At Least My Dog Thinks I’m Cool,” both accompanied by engaging music videos.
The album highlights the band's versatility with different lead vocals from Josh, Tam, and Shelly, supported by rich harmonies from the rest of the group. The seamless transitions between lead singers are a testament to the band’s cohesion, adding a unique and dynamic flavor to the album. Integrating nine members into a cohesive sound is no small feat, yet every track flawlessly showcases each member's contributions, whether through guitar, bass, trumpet, or drums. The album feels deeply personal, tackling themes like mental health with sensitivity and authenticity.
The opening track, “Going Nowhere Fast,” sets the tone with an explosive combination of horns and soaring guitars, driven by palm-muted rhythms. The opening line, “I caught the first train, I hopped on at a local station, I had the worst day, I got on with no destination,” hooks you instantly, leaving you eager for more.
Another track, “Antisocialmedia,” will be a definite crowd-pleaser, destined to become a live favorite. The track promises to critique the facade of social media, highlighting how “It’s only make-believe.” This song is should resonate with many listeners, bringing attention to the often deceptive nature of online personas.
“Reach for the Sky” captivates with its shifting tempo, slowing down during the verses and ramping up for the chorus, enhancing the song's emotional depth. The bridge features the poignant lyrics, “You can feel off if you have no soul, you can’t be brave if you have no fear, so do it with fear, so here’s to infinity, reach for the sky,” beautifully harmonized by the band. This track stands out for its lyrical profundity and musical intricacy, showcasing the band's range and emotional resonance.
These are just a few standout tracks from the album. Both singles are excellent, and my previous review of “Mass Hysteria” provides an in-depth look at that song. Overall, Mass Hysteria is a fantastic album that any ska or pop punk lover will appreciate. The band's ability to blend high-energy performances with thoughtful lyrics makes this album a must-listen.
I’m looking forward to picking up a vinyl copy at one of their upcoming shows: the album release show on June 28th at Debonair Music Hall, July 12th at Buffalo Ska Fest, and August 11th at Union Firehouse. Don’t miss the chance to experience this exhilarating album live! The energy and passion that Backyard Superheroes bring to their performances promise an unforgettable concert experience. This album is not just a collection of songs but a journey through the vibrant and diverse world of ska and pop punk, masterfully delivered by a band at the top of their game.
