REVIEW: Goldfinger, Stomping Ground (Mojo/Universal)
- Scott Hudson
For most, March Madness means NCAA hoops and lots of it. For Goldfinger fans, the term takes on an entirely different meaning, the much anticipated release of the band's new record Stomping Ground.
Goldfinger's path to this record is not without precedent. In the early '70s, a then-underground band called Kansas toured relentlessly off the beaten path, bringing their progressive overtures to seedy juke joints and cowboy bars. This hard work paid off in the form of a loyal fanbase which supported their first 3 albums until their breakthrough album, Leftoverture, after which Kansas became a household name.
Similarly, Goldfinger's incessant touring schedule is legendary (385 shows in 365 days in 1996-97) and as a result, the band has garnered quite a loyal underground following of their own. With two studio releases, a live album and appearances on numerous soundtracks ("The Waterboy," "BASEketball," "Dead Man On Campus," "American Pie," "Kingpin") the band has chiseled out a sound that demands to be heard.
Stomping Ground is Goldfinger's first studio record in three years and by far their strongest, most inspired effort to date. However, that may be putting mildly. Stomping Ground will be the record that elevates Goldfinger from underground stalwart to mainstream heavyweight.
On Stomping Ground, the band clings ever-so-tightly to their punk roots churning out high velocity tunes tinged with just enough pop flavor to attract a much broader audience. The record captures the energy of the band's live performance coupled their penchant for writing catchy, hook-laden power-punk.
"Don't Say Goodbye," "Think It's A Joke" and "San Simeon" are full-tilt, pedal-to-the-metal rockers while "I'm Down," "Pick A Fight" and "End Of The Day" are fueled by Charlie Paulson's crunchy rhythms and John Feldmann's emotionally-charged vocals.
"Carry On," "Don't Say Goodbye" and the band's first single "Counting The Days" are among the finest tunes you'll find in the punk idiom.
To disregard adding Stomping Ground to your collection would be a huge mistake. After all, this record is 13 tracks of essential listening for those familiar with the genre. Goldfinger fans will soon find this out. Then it will be up to everyone else play catch up.
