Strange New World by Space Age Zeros is one of those albums I’ve been meaning to spotlight but kept slipping through the cracks, thanks to the relentless flood of new releases and the ever-elusive work-life balance. Yet, after giving it another spin this morning, it’s clear this one deserves its moment in the sun.
Comprised of punk rock veterans from bands like Naked Raygun, Bollweevils, The Bomb, I Love Rich, and Urban Idols, Space Age Zeros could easily have coasted on their reputations. Instead, Strange New World is a heartfelt and refreshingly strong collection of mid-paced pop punk jams. From the opening track Fireworks, it’s clear that Space Age Zeros know how to craft catchy tunes — bittersweet rather than sugary, despite some undeniably sweet harmonies, like those on April First. The album features eleven original tracks and a solid unironic cover of America’s Sister Golden Hair, showcasing a band that knows how to honor their roots while still delivering something fresh.
This is one of those under-the-radar punk records that could easily make its way onto more than a few year-end best-of lists. Strange New World is available now on CD and LP via Mystic Records.
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