Dutch 5-piece Coral Springs have been around since 2011 and, so far, have put out a few Eps and appeared on a couple of compilations. By their own, admission their output has not been particularly prolific to date, however a line-up change in 2016 seems to have provided sufficient impetus for the band to put out this, their debut album.
The band cite, amongst others, Rise Against and New Found Glory as inspiration – in fact Coral Springs is the name of NFG’s home town! They lean more heavily on the pop punk side of the spectrum however the album is interlaced with noodley guitar riffs to add some extra depth, as well as a few quieter introspective moments. Jo’s vocals sit somewhere between Haley Williams and Cinder Block, working really well with the poppier songs but with enough range to go big or dial it back when needed.
The album gets off to a great start: “I Lost Track”, driving punk rock with a slight metal edge; “Taking A Fall”, classic skate punk palm muting leading to the uplifting chorus; “Voices” with a definite No Use meets Tilt vibe. Next up is a slice of pure pop punk joy, “The Alluring Sea”, which brings to mind All We Know Is Falling era Paramore. The chorus will get stuck in your head instantly and, if you’re like me, you’ll listen to it several times on repeat (much to the delight of my nine-year-old daughter). “State Of Denial” continues in a similar vein before “Ghost” slows things down with a more emo, atmospheric feel building to a full on punk rock ballad. “Anchor” and “One Gesture” pick the pace back up again before “On A Hold” kicks in with its homage to the My Friends Over You riff by the aforementioned ‘Glory. The song also features guest vocals from UK thrashers Almeida which works really well. Next up, “Determined” rocks along nicely with pleasing gang style back-up vocals and “Easier To Hide” gives Jo an opportunity to show off her impressive vocal range. Album closer, “Roam” is another stand out track, similarly finding me reach for the repeat button again and again. It’s another pop punk belter with chugging guitars, awesome harmonies on the chorus and an opportunity for the whole band to get in on the act vocally. There’s a cheeky breakdown that builds back up to a repeat of the chorus (don’t forget the “woah-oh-oh-ohs” in the background) to close out the song. It’s glorious and a fitting way to sign off.
As far as debut albums go this is really excellent. Quality from start to finish with a very well-honed sound which is both recognisable and unique at the same time. Always Lost, Never Found is out on Umlaut Records and SBAM Records on 22nd February, I highly recommend you check it out.
4.5/5