The Southern California indie rock quartet, Bad Suns are back in a big way with their fourth full length LP, Apocalypse Whenever. Since their formation in 2012, Bad Suns have not failed to deliver feel-good, pop heavy, alternative rock with frontman Christopher “Christo” Bowman leading the charge. Christo offers a distinct sound in his vocals that has a big role in defining the band’s stand out sound. Those notable vocals paired with a refined guitar tone from guitarist Ray Libby, Bad Suns have carved out their niche in the alternative rock spectrum.
After a brief departure from form on their previous LP, Mystic Truth, Bad Suns have returned to their rightful place at the precipice of modern alternative. Apocalypse Whenever is on par with some of the band’s early material that saw them quickly rise to popularity. This 13 track LP is packed full of jams that will surely have the Bad Suns’ faithful jumping on tour. Upon first listen, Apocalypse Whenever brings a cheerful vibe that has you imagining yourself somewhere on a Southern California beach. This is especially apparent on the singles that lead up to the album’s release. Although the album has a lot to offer from start to finish, the strongest points come out of the singles, in this case. With that said, some of those strong points are on a similar level to the band’s biggest hits and are bound to stay in the setlist for years to come. Let’s take a look at those highlights.
http://https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gmJP31reD8o
Starting at the very top of the list, you’ve got “Life Was Easier When I Only Cared About Me.” A mouthful of a title, but this single that made its debut on January 11 is undoubtedly the strongest track on the album. It starts off strong with an infectious combination of harmonious synths and a grooving pop beat. Bowman then comes in with incredibly catchy verse phrasing and belts it out in the strongest chorus on the album. This track is bound to be held in the ranks of notable previous hits like “Cardiac Arrest”, “Swimming in the Moonlight”, and “Salt.”
http://https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=E1PE5ehxI6o
Next up is “Heaven Is a Place in My Head.” This song embodies that cheerful, beach vibe in the fullest manner. With talks of endless summers and living in a daydream, this one hits you in the face with summer nostalgia. Musically, this track could be the most pop-heavy on the album. It has all the elements of a pop hit, but with a Bad Suns stamp on it. Sandwiched in the middle is a very tasteful guitar solo that brings a fullness to the song.
http://https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=X1zvsk8_CuI
Lastly, we’ve got yet another single in “When the World Was Mine.” This one takes its foot off the gas a little bit. Although still very pop in spirit, this track explores a more relaxed feel. The bassline groove and classic Bad Suns guitar tone take center stage here and are a pleasure to listen to.
You can catch Bad Suns on tour across the United States. The tour is underway now!
Bad Suns tour dates:
JANUARY
01/29 – Phoenix, AZ @ Van Buren+
FEBRUARY
02 – Los Angeles, CA @ Fonda Theater+
03 – Los Angeles, CA @ Fonda Theater#
04 – Santa Cruz, CA @ Catalyst+
05 – San Francisco, CA @ August Hall+
07 – Salt Lake City, UT @ Depot+
08 – Boulder, CO @ Boulder Theater+
10 – Minneapolis, MN @ Fillmore+
11 – Chicago, IL @ Cermak Hall+
12 – Detroit, MI @ Majestic Theatre+
15 – New Haven, CT @ Toad’s Place+
17 – New York, NY @ Webster Hall+
18 – Silver Springs, MD @ The Fillmore+
19 – Providence, RI @ Fete+
20 – Philadelphia, PA @ Union Transfer+
22 – Nashville, TN @ Brooklyn Bowl+
23 – Atlanta, GA @ Buckhead Theatre+
25 – Austin, TX @ Stubbs+
26 – San Antonio, TX @ Paper Tiger+
27 – Dallas, TX @ House of Blues+
MARCH
02 – Santa Ana, CA @ The Observatory^
03 – Santa Ana, CA @ The Observatory&
04 – San Diego, CA @ The Observatory+
+ w/ Kid Bloom & Little Image
# w/ girlfriends & more*
^ w/ Kid Bloom & more*
& w/ girlfriends & Little Image
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