A sunny, trippy trip into the past

If there are any bands who could resurrect the free spirit and love that ’60s psychedelic rock brought the world, Apollo Sunshine’s Shall Noise Upon might be the best bet.

In fact, this Boston band brings forth current world issues with a sound that would give anyone a good trip at any given time.

Like their other critically acclaimed albums that preceded Noise, Apollo Sunshine stay true and follow the roots that have carried the band. Instead of focusing on creating a hit single ready for the mainstream, Apollo stick with extending the boundaries of their sound.

Tracks such as “We Are Born When We Die” and “666: The Coming of the New World Government” further explore their super-funk vibes. There seem to be no limitations to what sounds they could mix in; every new idea is successful here.

Not only does Shall Noise Upon bring together a clashing of sounds that could send anyone into paranoia, it’s also a lyrical maze. The lyrics confront issues of love and politics head on.

Noteworthy track “Honestly” mixes enriched ethnic beats and Apollo’s ability to question politics with such phrases as “I wish we didn’t have to deal with leaders” to exploit the band’s nostalgic negligence.

“The Funky Chamberlain” turns time around with graphic stories of sex as lead singer Sam Cohen yells, “I spilled out and so we layed back down and waited for a baby.”

The lyrics question the status quo of current life while recalling memories of the past.
Apollo Sunshine clearly don’t intend to be the next Rolling Stones or Oasis, but with the new release of Shall Noise Upon, the comparisons will come. Their cult-like fan base should be pleased because this album sends everyone on a trip to wherever they want, whenever they want.