Nuremberg is also a bastion of punk rock and politically left engagement in Bavaria. The city that has to deal with the legacy of the Nazi Party rally grounds experienced something special in 2019.
In 2019, MELONBALL was formed.
By 2023, with their first album titled “Breathe,” the band made a name for themselves. They toured with bands like ZSK and the Satanic Surfers, played festivals, and made their mark in Eastern Canada.
Now, three years after their first album, “Take Care” is being released, which is a consistent evolution of the first album and incorporates the band's extensive live experience.
The result is an album with twelve songs that are all so fast that they will leave your ears ringing. Tempo meets melody, combined with the distinctive, strongly articulated vocals of Vik, all supported by strong songwriting.
If you’re not familiar with the band yet, you might hear echoes of Bambix while listening, or be reminded of the speed and melody of the long-gone Johnnie Rook from Berlin. There are also further references, especially from the realm of American skate punk.
The recording is beyond any doubt.
MELONBALL undoubtedly takes a huge step forward with this album. It is a development that is positive in every respect and hopefully brings them even more attention.
MELONBALL are on tour this spring, and the tour will continue this year. I’m curious to see how long they will still be playing in small clubs.
MELONBALL has the potential for so much more.
