Who knew that working in a field as dry as medical billing would solicit review opportunities? Yes, it’s true. Yours truly is a magnet for music, even at my humble little job. People come far and away, sending promos from Italy, England and Brazil, yet I always make time for the little guys in my own backyard. Alright, I am full of shit, but the fact that this blog is all about the music, no matter how big or small, sets us apart from other metal blogs. Jodi Explodi, a local punk band from the Portland, Maine area, has released their latest (first?) full length album, and while it’s not really all that metal, I am reviewing it anyway because I work with the bassist, and his wife is my boss. But besides all that, it’s pretty good too!

While I have been delving more and more into punk over the last few years, my interest has definitely been more focused towards the aggressive, hardcore and crossover acts of the 80’s. Jodi Explodi falls more under the traditional punk umbrella (if there is such a thing) with a strong emphasis on melody, uptempo riffs and quick, spastic back beats which creates a definitive poppy sound. It must be clarified though, that despite the band’s reliance on superfluous melodies, that this is NOT pop punk. Jodi Exlodi are a punk band that embraces the lighter side of the music. This is not Sum 41, nor is it Black Flag, it’s some where in between where free spirited pop meets the legitimacy of underground punk. For the lamen, I’d say that Jodi Explodi consists of some parts Green Day (which is evident in slower portions such as in “Zeke the Plumber”), with faster, melodic portions being more likened to NOFX, Pennywise and the grity old school revivalism of Bombshell Rocks, and Rancid. While Jodi Explodi are clearly not at the influential level of any of those bands, they have manufactured some very catchy tunes, such as “The Dreadful Doc Benton” which features vocalist Thomas Bozeman’s best performance of the album, as well as “Shipyard” (an ode to the Portland old port and even perhaps the Maine brewery of the same name?).

Another great feature on Shipyard is the gang vocals. This aspect of thrash metal, hardcore and punk is something that can make or break a song, and I am happy to say that for the most part, gang backing vocals are used with fantastic results here. Each member of the band is clearly identifiable and every moment this style is brought in, adds to the atmosphere of the song.

Despite this being an overall good record, there are downsides to it. First and foremost, is the pitchiness of the vocals. At times, Thomas’ voice fits the music quite well, but often, his inexperience with pitch control is readily apparent. Yes, this is a punk record and smooth singing is definitely not a necessity, but if you are going to include vocal lines that aren’t just growly and attitude ridden, you need to make a conscious effort to stay on pitch and maintain your correct key. The last track, “Good Luck” shows the album’s most glaring vocal weakness. Another problem is the drums. Overall, Adam Aldridge is a competent drummer, but some of the drum fills and choices of beats are awkward and amateurish. More times than I care for, Adam breaks into a random grunge-esque “Smells Like Teen Spirit” beat that just breaks down the momentum of the song. Listen to “The Dreadful Doc Benton” at around the 2:15 mark during the breakdown for a perfect example. This is a minor issue I have and and really doesn’t necessarily detract from the overall sound, but a bit more sophistication with the drums I think will bring Jodi Explodi to a whole new level.

Despite the faults this album may have, the positives definitely outweigh the negatives. This is an experienced band that has been around the regional scene for awhile. They have a local fanbase and anything they produce will likely suffice for their scene. However, if the band ever wants to expand, it’s going to be necessary, in my humble opinion, for them to improve on a few things, regardless if they decide to sign with a label or not. Mike, your bass is Godly, Melissa, please don’t fire me!

GOOD

1. The Dreadful Doc Benton
2. Shipyard
3. The Ultimate Trampion (Bouncy Bouncy)
4. Zeke the Plumber
5. Ghosts of New England
6. The Buzzards Will be Fightin’ the Lizards for Your Gizzards
7. Mary Nasson (The White Witch of York)
8. Good Luck

Thomas Bozeman – Lead Vocals, Guitar
Adam Aldridge – Drums, Vocals
Matt Thompson – Lead Guitars, Vocals
Mike Provencher – Bass Guitar, Vocals

Beer and Potato Records

http://www.myspace.com/jodiexplodimusic

Review by CODY