Dropkick – Good Vibes: The Dropkick Songbook Vol. 1 (2014)

Share this:

If you missed Dropkick the first time around, here’s your chance to sample the Scottish band’s wares in a single swoop. A best-of collection, Good Vibes: The Dropkick Songbook Vol. 1 (Rock Indiana) contains re-recorded tracks covering the years 2001 to 2008 that appeared on previous albums.

Armed with an arsenal of pinging guitars and glistening harmonies, Dropkick flashes their jangle pop badge with pride and respect. The band’s melodiously chiseled tunes are a nice homage to inspirational predecessors such as the Byrds, the Dentists, and Teenage Fan Club. But Dropkick wisely dodges the retro label by injecting modern sensibilities and vital energy into the stream.

No space is wasted on Good Vibes: The Dropkick Songbook Vol. 1, as each number is tight and to the point. Because each cut is so infectious, it’s quite a task trying to select highlights, but let’s go with “Only For Yourself,” “Figure It Out,” “Good Vibes,” “Breakdown,” and “When The Summer Comes Around” for starters. Enthused playing, punchy arrangements, and prominent hooks, dipped in balance and strength, demonstrate the band’s knack for producing tracks that are reliably pleasant and memorable.

Aside from being a fine glimpse of the band, Good Vibes: The Dropkick Songbook Vol. 1 is an excellent exercise in power pop done right. Sporting all the correct chemicals required to make the music, Dropkick also spikes their material with their own personalized charm. Good vibes definitely do drive the album, indicating Dropkick truly loves and believes in the stirring sounds they create. A guitar pop goldmine this is!

Beverly Paterson