Vol #164: Trunk Ride - “...by design”
Rustbelt Rock Review
By: Z.M. Delgado
Rustbeltrockreview.com
Volume #164: Trunk Ride - “...by design”
June 2024
S.B.S Records/Go Ride Records
Hello friends and welcome back to the cultural Rock N’ Roller coaster that is often referred to as the Rustbelt Rock Review. In this installment I will be taking a look at a new album I recently received. The record in question in “...by design” from Canton, Ohio’s Trunk Ride. It arrived in the mail about a week ago and I’ve been rocking it on the regular ever since. So here’s what I’ve learned about Trunk Ride: They are a four man act consisting of Sean (Vocals), Heath (Guitar), Andy (Drums) and Jesse (Bass). They play a Punk/Hardcore style and they are big time Skateboarding enthusiasts. The album consists of eight tracks and clocks in at just ten minutes. What it lacks in length in more than makes up for in intensity. From the opening shots to its closing notes this album is pure energy. There is a fusion of styles here, and I smell the presence of some of the greats. There are touches of H2O, as well as Pennywise and I also detect a dash of Dead Kennedy’s at times. Where ever they draw their inspiration, Trunk Ride has produced a volatile product. High octane and pulse pounding these songs are undoubtedly the perfect soundtrack for an afternoon skate session.
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Before we adjourn, I want to take a moment to shout out my favorite tracks from this collection. First we have to talk about “Shadow Ban.” This song kicks off the record and it does so with explosive bang. The opening riff is infectious and when the drums come in they absolutely smash. The Vocals have a ranting quality that I adds a certain… instability to the sound. It’s like you have a mad man screaming in your face. The icing on the cake of this track is the shredding Guitar solo that Heath summons, which is a thing of beauty. All in all “Shadow Ban” is a beast and I think it’s my favorite track on the album. Next we have to discuss the title track, “By Design.” This one is another ripper with a riff that will crush you like a run away truck. I like the gang vocals on the verse; the shouting of “by design” from the background adds a solid punch to the mix. There’s some nice lead Guitar work here as well. Without any doubt this song is a banger and it will have you turning your volume dial up. Finally, I want to mention “Forward Line.” This song is pure unadulterated moshpit bait. The riff is nasty like a bone saw, while the Bass line is plucky and lively. The chorus on this one truly slams with the Vocals raging defiantly. Long story short, this is a bad ass Punk song now matter which way you slice it.
So with all that being said, I have to say I definitely recommend this album. It hard and fast. It hits you right in the ear and then it’s over almost before it began. The songs a short, but effective, as is the album overall. It really captures the raw energy of Skateboarding and these songs would have been right at home on the soundtrack to Tony Hawk Pro Skater. So, yeah, check out “...by design.” If you love Punk Rock with a lot of speed and adrenaline woven into the vibe, then you should give Trunk Ride a listen today. Thanks for reading.
Until next time, Rock on, Rustbelt,
-Z.M. Delgado
Rustbelt Rock Review
Rustbeltrockreview.com
11/22/2014
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