Album Review: Seaway - 'Big Vibe'

Seaway, Canadian pop-punk band, redefine their sound in energetic new album ‘Big Vibe’.

The album kicks off with the explosive track ‘Brain in a Jar’ that uses unremitting drumming to encapsulate the feel-good essence that graces the entire record. This is followed by the title track ‘Big Vibe’ – an energetic song bursting with retro influences. But ‘Mrs. David’ is the stand-out track for the band as the signpost of their sound’s direction and future.

“We were pretty much done in the studio,” says guitarist Andrew Eichinger, “and then COVID-19 hit, so we kept writing and did a couple more songs, one of which was Mrs. David. And it’s one of the best songs we’ve ever written. We just did it and it felt perfect. And without that song I think the record would be completely different. It brings the whole thing together.”

Despite the seemingly positive “windows down, volume up” outlook of the album, it also features many earnest, emotionally-driven tracks such as the pessimistic examination of society in ‘Still Blue’ and ‘Sick Puppy’ – potentially the most miserable song the band has ever written.  

The band’s fourth studio album sees them taking steps away from their typical pop-punk sound and leaning on more rock and indie sounds. But even so, all eleven tracks are brimming with a hyperactive attitude and uplifting confidence.

“This record is a big stepping stone for us,” admits vocalist Ryan Locke. “I think we’ve slowly carved our place in the scene and now we’re just trying to take the next big step, to wherever that may be.”

Words by Holly Peters

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