It’s a rare thing for a band that’s been around for 25+ years to make a record that sounds as fresh as a brand new artist just putting out their first collection of polished studio recordings, and yet somehow, this is exactly the stunt Zebrahead have just pulled. Sounding as energetic and invigorated as ever, the bands latest five track EP continues to flesh out a vibrant range of sounds established by the preceding release. From punk and ska to rock and metal, it’s all blended together with tight production, catchy hooks and memorable singalong lyrics, whether it’s an upbeat darkened ska number like ‘Evil Anonymous’ or a riffy, metal laden track like ‘Middle Seat Blues’.
The dual vocal delivery of long-time band member Ali Tabatabaee and newer vocalist and guitarist Adrian Estrella, who joined the band in 2021, breathe new life into the band whilst still retaining a familiar identity that serves just as well as an entry point for new fans as it does a bridge for fans that’ve been with the band for longer. Smack bang in the middle of a music campaign that not only sees the band shine brighter than ever, but indicates just how much this band still has to offer the world. The first track off the EP, ‘No Tomorrow’ picks up immediately where ‘Russian Roulette Is For Lovers?’ (the last track on the previous EP) left off, an injection of upbeat punk rock you can really bang your head to, with rebellious lyrics about rejecting the negativity of the world and living for enjoyment by your own standards. “I just wanna act young, but grow old with my friends, I just wanna get drunk, be sober when I feel like it”, is a defiant feel good anthem sure to strike a chord with many.
In turn, ‘Licking On A Knife For Fun’ carries themes of taking a stand against the toxic people in your life, and refusing to bow to their whims; “I would rather die on my feet, than live on my knees, who needs enemies when I have friends like you”. These lyrics delivered alongside a slamming riff from the get go make this a particular standout. EP closer ‘F.L.F.U.’ continues to experiment with the tone, trading punk rock for pop punk, an upbeat breakup banger with an outrageously catchy chorus, and oh too relatable chants of “Fuck love and fuck you”.
Combined with previous output III, these songs would make for an incredible record of potential big hits for the band, yet even standing on its own, II is a spectacular body of work that seeks to further showcase Zebrahead‘s ability to write songs that stick. Pulling primarily from the sounds of the late 90s and early 00s punk rock scene and still remaining fresh in their execution, bolstered by over 25 years of experience, this is an essential Zebrahead listen, even when stacked up against 13+ previous releases.