January Birthdays 
Supertubos – The Fourth Drive CD (Double Crown)
The Fourth Drive is the fourth album from this Spanish 5-piece who named their band after a beach in neighboring Portugal. Drawing inspiration from surf music and 60s rock ‘n roll this CD is a rip-roaring good time! It’s been roughly six years since their previous release, Rendezvous on Sharawaji Records, and the guitarists and bassist remain the same. To add a new dimension, a new drummer and keyboard player are in the lineup.
The opening tracks, “Thunderchicken” and “Hamburgo 61” give us insight into their affinity for 60s music with the keyboard in high gear. The addition of keys can be hit or miss in this genre, but the Supertubos incorporate this instrument brilliantly. These tunes are an excellent introduction to the fun and excitement that’s in store. The third track, “Cuarta Ola” or “Fourth Wave” kicks into high gear from the get-go and doesn’t let up! It’s two-and-a-half minutes of melodic fun! There are two cover songs on this CD. The first one, the fourth track, is a slower and slightly gloomy rendition of Mancini’s, "Experiment in Terror." As life ebbs and flows between the highs and lows, its inclusion is a firm reminder of the frailties of life. The 3:41 introspective plunge comes to an abrupt halt with the Spaghetti Western leanings of “Nueva Siberia,” a three-and-a-half-minute ride on a bucking bronco well stocked with thundering drum rolls. “Barbados Surprise” occupies the sixth slot for your Bajan longings. This tune’s recipe is a remarkable combination of groovy 60s rock and euphonious surf seasoned with Caribbean spices. "French Bomb" is a unique blend of the Avengers VI's "Time Bomb" with Stereolab’s "French Disko." As peculiar as that may sound, it melds nicely. Track eight, “Magnetika,” concludes the disc on a slower tempo, reminiscent of their Rendezvous CD. It’s a subtle ending showcasing the talented band’s ‘magnetic’ teamwork.
Only 300 copies of this US version are known to exist. There are 8 tracks at 25 minutes in a gatefold sleeve. The abstract artwork by Marcel Bontempi is unique and adds a new dimension. To my eyes, the art is not immediately recognizable as Marcel’s work, and I like that. For European fans, the music was concurrently released as a red LP by Sleazy Records of Spain. The liner notes are all in Spanish on both versions. Get your copy today at:
https://www.doublecrownrecords.com/supertubos-the-fourth-drive-cd/
As reviewed in Colorado Instrumental Fanzine Issue 3
—Matthew
Purchasae Colorado Instrumental Fanzine Issue 3
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