The band from Maryland has been around for almost 25 years now, and with "Bad Summer," Ballyhoo! delivers their tenth album – out since August 28 via Right Coast Records. This time, John Feldmann, known for his productions for Blink-182, Avril Lavigne, and Goldfinger, was at the helm.
Twelve songs, thick melodies, loud guitars – "Bad Summer" brings together what the band has been known for over the years: pop-punk energy, coastal vibe, and a hefty dose of alternative rock power. The first reviews especially praise the album's positive tone, which is supposed to inspire hope despite all adversities.
The title track comes with a completely crazy video (directed by Andrew "Gingy" Hall), in which the band fully dives into their hair metal alter egos – fat riffs, big hairstyles, no restraint. Frontman Howi Spangler says they have never put so much effort into a video idea before.
The collaboration with Feldmann was a long-held wish for Ballyhoo!. They knew that the next album had to be something special, Spangler says, and took some risks to make it happen – in the end, the result turned out even better than they had hoped. Feldmann himself is equally impressed and praises the band as open, incredibly talented musicians.
The band was already on the road in Europe this year, with festival appearances at BrakRock in Belgium and Punk Rock Holiday in Slovenia, as well as various club shows. In 2027, they will continue with a performance on the 311 Caribbean Cruise in March.
