Cargo Records (label)
23 March 2015 (released)
25 March 2015
Yes, all-star power pop rockers The Crunch are still busy making noise and if new single Neon Madonna is anything to go by, that noise just keeps getting more irresistible all the time! With a new album release on April 30th just around the corner, the single offers an exciting taster of what might lay ahead – sonically speaking.
Fronted by Sulo Karlsson (Diamond Dogs), the outfit still features guitarist Mick Geggus (Cockney Rejects), bassist Dave Tregunna (Sham 69 / Lords Of The New Church) and drummer Terry Chimes (The Clash) though now the band has welcomed live collaborator Idde Schultz (keys and backing vox) as the fifth full-time member.
The slightly distorted opening chorus calling for the ‘Neon Madonna’ in question is promptly followed by a reggae-infused beat that immediately suggests happy vibes. Don’t be fooled, for the song’s lyrics remain in stark contrast to the catchy ‘n’ good-time pop rhythm of the composition:
“Segregation / aggravation / destination nowhere.
Glum and cold / out of control / but no one seems to care.
Boy soldiers marching on to the sound of the same old drum.
Deep down in the trench there’s a grave for everyone.
Shine a light on me tonight, Neon Madonna…”
Sulo’s powerful voice, complemented by Idde’s backing vocals, warns us that no matter how much we try to believe in something, and no matter how much we try to avoid the grim reaper, we can’t escape our fate. A catchy and dramatic chorus, and the spot-on instrumental input by Mick, Dave and Terry underline this.
There is also a video that goes hand in hand with the song (check it out on YouTube) – shot around the joyless parts of London’s Canning Town district, and – in a nod to Mick Geggus’ past with The Cockney Rejects - in local venue The Bridgehouse 2. The original venue was of course the setting for the Rejects first gig back in 1979, oi oi!
Keep your ears pricked for when The Crunch’ new album ‘Brand New Brand’ is out!
