ALBUM REVIEW: Destroy Boys – Funeral Soundtrack #4

“On their fourth outing Destroy Boys continue to defy expectations delivering on a serious but also playful punk rock album that packs a serious punch”

by Felix Bartlett | Aug 7, 2024

The Cali punk legends DESTROY BOYS have been building attention in the scene since their formation in 2015, particularly after their nomination in the 2017 Sacramento Area Music Awards. The band have consistently demonstrated why they deserve this recognition, and their latest album, Funeral Soundtrack #4, is no exception.

Kicking off the album with a band is “Bad Guy,” a subdued track that opens with isolated vocals and minimal instrumentation. This opening sets the stage with promise, which the band delivers on with powerful choruses. The song is scrappy and chaotic, yet retains enough order to hold itself together. The second track, “Plucked,” released as a single back in April this year and gained high praise from fans and critics alike. As we flow into this track I can say it stands out as one of the album’s highlights. The vocals have a sarcastic edge, adding depth to this meaningful song. The straightforward punk approach plays to Narsai (drums), Alexia (Vocals and guitar) and Violet (guitar) strengths providing just enough without overcomplicating things. This is DESTROY BOYS doing what they do best.

The fourth track, “Praying,” slows things down again with Alexia’s striking vocals being accompanied by simple strings. The isolated vocals showcase the band’s strength, creating an oppressive yet compelling atmosphere in the verses. The song takes off in the choruses, reaching new heights.

The latest album has a trick up its sleeve in the name of “Amor Divino,” (translating to “Divine Love.”). The entire song is sung in Spanish which provides a touching nod to vocalist Alexia Roditis’s Argentinian roots and provides an unexpected and anthemic track that adds a fresh dimension to the album. “Amor Divino” delivers a more upbeat feeling than previous tracks, with a dreamier rock feel rather than punk, demonstrating DESTROY BOYS’ versatility and willingness to experiment with different styles.

Returning back to their signature sound “Shedding Skin” features a crunching guitar that opens the track and paves the way for a track that stands out with its light instrumentation. On this occasion I found the backing instruments taking centre stage, driving the song and providing almost the entire melody, complemented by vocals that display incredible range and once again give vocalist Alexia a chance to flex her Argentinian roots.

Once again we’re treated to a deviation in the bands usual sound with “You Don’t Know” taking a slightly more indie direction with the incorporation of an earworm hook throughout the verses, driven by acoustic and electric guitar riffs. With vocals slightly higher than usual, thus track provides a welcoming more heartfelt and reflective break in the flow of the album. It stands out as one of the more emotional songs on the album and leads straight into “You Hear Yes,” that wastes no time in throwing you head first into Destroy Boys scrappy punk feel. It’s a rebellious anthem about battling oppression and embracing individuality, reminiscent of the core ethos of punk.

Rounding things off the track “Boyfeel,” (also released as a single) signs off this outing with a more laid back and swinging feel. Minimal instrumentation provides a satisfying send off with intensity rising in the choruses accompanied by heavy yet uncomplicated guitar riffs. For Roditis, who identifies as queer and non-binary, this track is personal as it identifies and addresses their experience as a queer, non-binary persona through a punk rock lens. As a group the band handles the subject matter with respect and sensitivity as they close the album on a high note.

As an album Funeral Soundtrack #4 presents itself as arguably the most fun funeral ever (morbid but true). On their fourth outing Destroy Boys continue to defy expectations delivering on a serious but also playful punk rock album that packs a serious punch.

Verdict: 4/5