Lipona - Atlas
 

Lipona may be fairly unknown in the UK, but if they continue to produce albums like this, it won't be too long before they're well featured in the british rock scene. This is their first full-length album and they have already given themselves a challenge to better it. The album is self-released and a call from a record label can't be too far around the corner.

The five-piece from Florida are a high-energy modern punk band that are comparable to many other bands of this genre, but also create their own styles of uniqueness. The vocalist Yamil Velez, for example, doesn't have the stereotypical high-pitched squeak often associated with many punk singers, but he has a voice that makes Lipona stand out from the rest.

The acoustic guitar and vocals that open the album on the track 'Shut up and Stay Positive' demonstrate the emotion created in many parts of the album. It then bursts into the fast-paced guitar riff and drum patterns that make Lipona what they are. In fact, the link between emotive music and care-free rebellious punk combine well on 'Atlas'. Again demonstrating the skillful musicianship presented by the band.

The over-use of double-kick by drummer Roy Morlock at first is a bit of a headache, but once I got used to it I realised it just helps to boost the emphasis of speed in their music.

The best song on the album is probably 'The Citadel' both in terms of lyrics and just sheer likability. I have been singing it constantly since I listened to it the first couple of times. Another great song is 'Deception' and it is a great way to finish of a sublime album. This is even in despite of the fact that the beginning of the track sounds like a song from 'The Editors'.

If you are going to take a risk with your money and buy an album from a band you may not be too familiar with, this is definitely the one to get. Easily a 9/10