PHOTO COURTESY OF CALM BOMB
The independent progressive scene is a tough one to categorize, considering it is such a niche genre. Thankfully, one of the few bands to fit the description is actually pretty good.
Calm Bomb, a South Florida based band consisting of members Paul Petrac, Nathaniel Spiner and Mitchell Parke, released their first EP I Am The God I Fear on Nov. 9.
With themes of nihilism, death, the infamous Fyre Festival and drug use, Calm Bomb is trying hard to make a grand first impression.
The EP begins with A Loss For Words, a short melodic intro consisting of intricate arpeggios. The second track, In My Way, is a power rock anthem, clearly defining the band’s musical direction. Quiet and understated vocals grow into belting, with an electrically charged and emotional chorus. The song’s changing dynamics offer some diversity and is something that will keep listeners hooked.
Kicking Rocks begins with a shuffling drum beat and a catchy, repetitive guitar riff. Having worked at rapper Ja Rule’s infamous Fyre Festival in April of this year, the band’s experience undoubtedly influenced this song.
Written from the perspective of a disappointed festival-goer, it states, “it wasn’t what we thought it was/what you promised us/ on the island that you turned to dust.” The unexpectedly sad and pop-culture relevant subject matter makes the song a standout on the EP.
Here To Stay has heavy metal influences, featuring intense, head-banging solos. The heaviest song on the album, its distorted power chords in the beginning contrast with interludes of softer guitar arpeggios. Raw, angry vocals sing a story of heartbreak and distance from loved ones.
Tomorrow is an optimistic song about overcoming challenges and was released as a single earlier this year. It has a much softer sound, with thoughtful and introspective lyrics and atmospheric guitar.
I Am The God I Fear is a strong debut from Calm Bomb. The introspective lyrics, original song content and skillful instrumentation make this EP worth a listen for rock music fans.
However, their sound easily melds into similar indie and punk groups of the local scene. Overall, while off to a steady start, Calm Bomb needs to step it up next time to differentiate themselves from other South Florida rock bands.
