Nobunny

Given the fleeting disposition of Justin Champlin, who as alter-ego Nobunny has spent the last ten years touring, writing and recording with reckless abandon, you might assume that First Blood would be a scattered spin. Instead, Nobunny has managed to corral his frantic pace (Goner is the ninth label that has released Nobunny material) and channel this energy into his freshest and most accessible full-length to date. First Blood gives listeners the kind of sunny, carefree garage pop that will keep the memory of summer alive well after every leaf falls to the ground, as evidenced on swinging opener "Ain't It A Shame" and menacing follow-up "(Do the) Fuck Yourself." First Blood fires on all cylinders while maintaining a cohesive, palpable groove. Sure, First Blood takes a breather midway through with the meandering "Pretty Please Me," but there is more than enough ripe congenial vibes throughout the latter half to leave a pleasant taste in one's mouth. Nobunny is, after all, a master at culling his influences. By balancing the flourishing sexuality of Motown and the driving optimism of California punk on "Live It Up," Nobunny produces lean, yet ultimately fulfilling, pop songs. The inescapable reminder that encompasses much of First Blood is one that's often overlooked: listening to records can be a fun, simple way to spend your time. Nobunny has always been a master at keeping things light. First Blood manages to do just that and will keep you coming back whenever you need that sort of light-hearted pick-me-up.