The BronxYou would struggle hard to find a band out there that can top The Bronx's punk rock attitude both on and off the stage. Here are a band that are just as comfortable cheesing it up in a mariachi band as they are cramming blistering punk tunes down your gob. The band's first two albums were young, vigorous and unyielding, while with album III, The Bronx mellowed somewhat, introducing some mid-tempo rockers in addition to their usual style. For the most part it's the wild side of The Bronx that's on the newest album IV, though, and from the opening track The Unholy Hand it's business as usual; raucous guitars and Matt Caughthran's signature scream, a classic Bronx track. However, there is the odd curveball – Along For The Ride presents an almost pop side to the band and Torches is melodic guitar lines, whereas Life Less Ordinary is simply two fuzzed-out guitars and a sombre melody line (entirely unheard of in a Bronx song). It's different territory for the band, however, the sentiment and feeling that Bronx fans hold dear is still prevalent.
The band are well known for their rambunctious live shows and a large chunk of tracks on IV would easily slide into their setlist. While they have delved into some unfamiliar territory, the heart of the band is still present and pumping vigorously; they maintain what made them relevant when they released their debut album and continue to not give a fuck about the public's perception. The world needs more bands like The Bronx – unflinchingly brash without coming across as contrived or arrogant. IV is a winner.
