Bands from Italy are always good for a surprise. They often have a unique style that seems somewhat familiar, but upon closer listening, it is indeed different, distinctly their own. Unfortunately, many bands from this corner of the underground remain undiscovered, leaving a lot of good music unheard.
This is likely what the German label Antstreet thought when they signed CELEB CAR CRASH. The booklet, featuring intelligent, critical yet sometimes overly emotional and personal lyrics, is an enjoyable read. It seems the band has contemplated the big themes. The lyrics are sung entirely in English, which is absolutely fine, but it does leave out the unique linguistic flavor, namely the special sound of the Italian language.
Musically, the band offers solid, well-played rock on the album with its thirteen songs (including a cover of the classic “I am the Walrus” by The Beatles). It is rock music with a slightly dark, melancholic note. Emo-rock would be an exaggeration, but it’s not just major chords being played. Technically, it is at a decent level. The band plays well together, the vocals are varied, and the songs feature breaks and some headbanging moments that are quite good, but nothing really sticks.
Everything the band offers on “Ambush!” is good; there’s really nothing to complain about if something would linger. It’s not even that one could accuse the band of anything, as what they do, they do well. No question!
Sometimes, however, solid craftsmanship is simply not enough to stand out. And that is what gives bands around the world their own profile, at least in the eyes of the larger audience.
