Alien Nosejob: Turns The Colour of Bad Shit [Album Review]

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Alien Nosejob
Turns The Colour Of Bad Shit
Anti Fade/Drunken Sailor/Total Punk Records [2024]

Album Overview: Alien Nosejob, the solo project of Jake Robertson, has steadily released a wide range of music since its inception. Robertson, known for his work in bands like Ausmuteants and Hierophants, formed Alien Nosejob to explore diverse genres. Each record he has released showcases his versatility, moving between punk, garage rock, and beyond. Turns The Colour Of Bad Shit marks Robertson’s seventh solo effort under the Alien Nosejob moniker. Recorded in April 2023, the album was created during a short weekend session at a friend’s home studio. This record presents a mix of biting musical moments and more lighthearted tracks, tapping into punk roots with influences from late 1970s sounds. With 27 minutes of music spread across ten songs, Turns The Colour Of Bad Shit offers an intense yet dynamic listening experience. The songs are spirited and carry a rolling momentum, driven by tight rhythms, screeching guitar, fiery synths, and Robertson’s commanding vocals, making this one of Alien Nosejob’s most vibrant releases to date.

Musical Style: This album channels classic punk energy, influenced by late 1970s artists such as Elton Motello, The Rezillos, X-Ray Spex, and The Adverts. Instrumentally, it blends guitar riffs, saxophone lines, and driving rhythms. With nods to various punk subgenres, Turns The Colour Of Bad Shit balances aggression with melody. The mix of abrasive sounds and moments of levity creates a fun, diverse collection of songs.

Evolution of Sound: Alien Nosejob continues to expand its range with each release, and Turns The Colour Of Bad Shit marks a return to punk influences while maintaining some of the experimentation from previous albums. Earlier releases had a more garage rock-focused sound, but this album embraces a punk attitude, incorporating elements like saxophone alongside raw guitar work. Robertson revisits the energy of his earlier work, enhancing it with sharper production and slightly cleaner vocals.

Artists with Similar Fire: Fans of Tee Vee Repairman, Osees, and X-Ray Spex will find connections in this album’s sound. Listeners who enjoy Radio Birdman or The Stooges will appreciate the guitar-driven aspects of Turns The Colour Of Bad Shit. The combination of punk energy with experimental touches makes it suitable for those who enjoy an eclectic approach.

Pivotal Tracks: The opening track, “Bird Strike,” stands out with its dark, mind-numbing riff and the use of saxophone, which adds a unique layer to the album’s atmosphere. “Trapped in Time” introduces a more relaxed tone, addressing themes of living in the past, while “The Ostrich” features a standout guitar solo, showcasing Robertson’s skill. The closing track, “Medical Treatment,” provides a strong finish with a blend of minor chords and callout vocals, evoking comparisons to greats like Radio Birdman and The Saints.

Lyrical Strength: The lyrics on Turns The Colour Of Bad Shit mix wit with sharp commentary. “Trapped in Time” critiques nostalgia in a light-hearted way, while “Annoying Riffs” addresses societal frustrations with a touch of self-reflection. Throughout the album, the imagery and themes complement the music’s raw energy, reinforcing Alien Nosejob’s punk ethos and Robertson’s introspective yet satirical approach to songwriting.

ALIEN NOSEJOB REVIEW HISTORY
Suddenly Everything Is Twice As Loud (2020)

ALIEN NOSEJOB LINKS
Instagram | Bandcamp | Anti Fade Records | Drunken Sailor Records | Total Punk Records

Christopher Anthony
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