No Trigger
Tycoon
No Sleep Records
Sounds Like: Hardcore aggression mixed with catchy punk rock.
Rating: 9/10
There’s something so awesome to me about albums that sound best once the volume is as high as it will go. You know those albums; the ones that turn the inside of your car into a mosh pit. If you’re into that kind of stuff, and if you’re on this website, I’m assuming you are, you can go ahead and add No Trigger’s new album Tycoon to your loud collection. This thing rips from the first track to the last. Fusing a hardcore attitude and catchy punk rock has yet to fail anyone if done correctly, and No Trigger has this style sewn up pretty tightly.
The first few tracks on the album really demonstrate the band’s ability to balance that raw, unhindered pace with smooth melodic hooks. “Checkmate” is a perfect example. Old school riffs coupled with an active drum line and a sing-along at the end make this song memorable. “Talk about a never-ender. Say it like you mean it, I will not be defeated” are the final lines on “Checkmate” and they really show that hardcore attitude. There is something headstrong and almost cocksure about No Trigger’s lyrics. They’re going to tell you how it is, like it or not.
As Tycoon progresses, the band seems to expand its arsenal and deviate from the up-tempo, in-your-face style. The albums eighth track “New Brains” is my favorite because of its versatility. Introducing itself with a groove reminiscent of any Explosions in the Sky song (the lone respite on the album, a chance to catch your breath), the song unfolds into a no-holds-barred punk rock gem with riffs that approach light speed. I specifically enjoyed the ax-men on Tycoon. The guitar riffs are all quick and lively, never even hinting at a dull moment. Songs like “Skyscrapers” portray the band’s more melodic side while “Windmill and Watertower” showcase them in an aggressive light. The album’s final song “Turn In My Throat” is essentially a two-part song, linked by an awesome drum solo that I only wish was longer.
That brings me to the only fault I could find with Tycoon. They never really put the drummer on adequate display. Throughout the record he flashes some real talent and style. For example, he does work in “Dried Piss” like, the whole time. I’d be more than happy to hear more.
Tycoon is No Trigger at its best. They take the best aspects of a few genres and mold it into a punk rock album that has something for everyone. The more you listen to it, the more material you wish there was. For now, these eleven songs will have to do until the next installment of awesome No Trigger jams. Pick up Tycoon from the No Sleep Records website today!
-Felipe Garcia
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