By: Becky Firesheets
Rating: 8/11

Yoni Gordon and The Goods have solidly nailed what so many bands have been missing for years: the right balance between pop and punk. Buried in the Basement (2007- self-released) brings the fast-paced rock breakdowns, pumping bass lines and party vibe of punk to the hooky choruses and delightfully catchy melodies of pop, mixing them together in the most joyous of ways.

Gordon’s upbeat surfer voice is pleasantly childlike and contagiously fun, bouncing through the album with a fierce lilt. Drummer Scott Eisenberg-Gretsch brings a well-controlled aggressive energy to the kit, mixing march-like cadences with syncopated rhythms. Their instrumental breaks are hard rockin’ yet maintain the happiness, Gordon weaving his quick and busy guitar lines through their carefully crafted tunes with impressive precision.

“When the Sidewalk Ends” is their most punk number, beginning louder and harsher than the others before falling into a ska-influenced refrain hearkening The Clash. “Runaway” is their highlight however, blending forceful drumming with sweet vocal harmonies and swoon-worthy “Oooh, ooh, oohs.” The only downfall to Buried in the Basement is that a chunk of its songs start to sound the same, blending into one another on a quick listen. But this is easy to let slide; they did find the perfect balance, after all.

Throughout the album, Gordon’s lyrics playfully comment on society, offering both deep and funny insights. “Debt After Death” pokes fun at the woes of being young and poor, trying “to find a job you love and still get paid,” while other songs utilize metaphor and imagery in an enjoyably thought-provoking way. Gordon’s goofy sense of humor shines brightly, especially on song “Sing Like a Ghost,” a forty second track with only spooky ghost imitations that ups the silly factor without taking it too far.

With a new album on the horizon and a load of upcoming shows, Yoni Gordon and The Goods (currently living in Brooklyn and Boston) have a promising future in their new city. Catch a live set at Spike Hill on April 18th, Pete’s Candy Store on April 25th, or The Charleston on May 8th. For other show details or to buy Buried in the Basement, check out the band’s site here.