Review
Japandroids
Celebration Rock

Polyvinyl (2012) Lucy Mazzucco

Japandroids – Celebration Rock cover artwork
Japandroids – Celebration Rock — Polyvinyl, 2012

Japandroids, a Canadian two-piece rock band from Vancouver, British Columbia, has released their second full length album entitled Celebration Rock. The album begins with drumbeats and the first track, "The Nights of Wine and Roses," which showcases their garage-band sound with the voices of both Brian King and David Prowse. Following up their first album, the duo has maintained the sound that makes them unique while giving Celebration Rock a certain je ne sais quoi making it easy on the ears.

The sound of this Canadian duo has heartfelt lyrics and their underground sound makes it feels as though they're performing right in front of you. "The Nights of Wine and Roses" is a perfect introduction to what the duo has to offer throughout the rest of the album. This track begins with the sounds of fireworks, which fade away as the sounds of the drums kick in and start the melody for the song.

"The House that Heaven Built" screams the word “single.” It begins with a short guitar intro and moves quickly into the vocals, which include various "woahs” by both vocalists, King and Prowse, giving the song a chorus effect, which can also be seen throughout the album. By incorporating both vocals into their songs, it gives them a bang and further emphasizes the dramatic effects added to give it a passionate vibe.

“Continuous Thunder” is another track that stands out. It is a song that is much slower than the others and depicts themes of love and growth. After many tracks with strong, passionate sounds, “Continuous Thunder” allows the tone of the album to shift, giving the listener a sense of relaxation from the intensity of the rest of the album, making it a perfect closing song which ends with the sounds of fireworks. The fact that this album begins and ends with fireworks makes it unfold nicely and intertwines the album together with an interesting twist.

The “garage-band” sound that this album entails makes it perfect for summer and great for playing in the background while you and your friends have a couple of pints. The overall sound has been heard before, but the duo ensures that their uniqueness shines through the melodies and sounds in Celebration Rock captivating their audience and newborn fans.

Japandroids – Celebration Rock cover artwork
Japandroids – Celebration Rock — Polyvinyl, 2012

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