Single Review

Thankfully, you dont always get what you expect and Sonic Boom Six are a delicious example of why the unexpected can be so welcome. Firstly there are not six of them (theres five). Secondly, and more importantly, the bands reputation as a hard-working fun-loving ska-punk outfit is as irresistible as it is deserved.

Formed in Manchester in 2002, SB6 released their third studio album City of Thieves on their own label, Rebel Alliance Recordings, last month. 'The Concrete We're Trapped Within (it's yours)' is the first single from the new record and in typical Boom style, it has been out there grafting; its hard work earning plenty of airtime on the Radio 1 Punk Show, Kerrang! Radio and 6Music. To boot, the band has recently recorded a session at the BBCs Maida Vale studios and will be gracing the same stage as the Kings of Leon at Leeds and Reading.

The Sonic Boom Six sound is probably best described as ska-punk with a heavy smattering of metal. It would be misleading to suggest that their music will make you want to sit still and quietly reflect itll more likely make you jump and wiggle and wriggle and shake and worry that someone might see. That said, although their tunes unquestionably sound best turned up to 11 and are almost relentlessly (and fabulously) shouty and energetic, the Boom boom can be surprisingly commercial and radio-friendly.

On Concrete, lead singer and all-round punk pixie Laila K largely shares vocal duties with Ben and the result is to keep the energy levels high throughout, complementing the rich punk sound and ceaseless pace of the track. Laila, Barney, Ben, Nick and Neil have been skipping and ripping their tunes around the UK and (far) beyond for more than seven years and Concrete is not only a good example of their current sound but also an indicator of musical maturity.

The single is available as a download and on CD maxi-single and the album, City of Thieves, is out now. Sonic Boom Six are probably on the road right now, rushing between appointments, trying to satisfy the ever-growing demand for their services. A bit like the A Team.

If you need their help and you can find them, then be advised to expect the unexpected.