Review By James Wilson
Sweden’s Electric Boys return with the infectious charm and bold energy that have defined their decades-long career with their new EP, “Shady Side Of Town”. Fresh off the momentum of their 2023 album Grand Explosivos, this collection feels like a secret stash of grooves that were too good to remain unheard. In just a handful of tracks, the band proves once again why their blend of funky hard rock and psychedelic flair continues to resonate with fans old and new.
From the opening notes, it’s clear that the Electric Boys haven’t lost an ounce of their signature swagger. Conny Bloom’s guitar riffs are as sharp and playful as ever, threading seamlessly with Andy Christell’s rhythmic basslines, Jolle Atlagic’s tight, punchy drumming, and Slim Martin’s second-guitar textures. Each track pulses with a vitality that feels equal parts retro homage and modern groove rock mastery. The EP effortlessly captures the spirit of the 70s while keeping the hooks fresh, crisp, and undeniably catchy.
Highlights include the slyly infectious “Keep It Dark”, where Slim Martin steps up on lead vocals, delivering a sultry, playful contrast to Bloom’s commanding presence. The interplay between guitars, bass, and drums throughout the EP is impeccable, driving each song with energy and precision while leaving room for moments of spontaneous funk-laden flair. There’s a joyous looseness here that suggests a band having as much fun in the studio as they do on stage.
What makes Shady Side Of Town so compelling is how it bridges eras of the Electric Boys’ sound. While these tracks were born during the Grand Explosivos sessions, they reveal subtler shades of the band’s personality—rawer grooves, tighter psychedelic flourishes, and playful experimentation. The songs feel like snapshots of a band fully comfortable in their own skin, balancing sophistication with the reckless fun that first made them a cult favourite.
Over their career, the Electric Boys have consistently pushed boundaries while staying true to a core of funky, groove-driven hard rock. Whether it was the MTV-ready hits of the late 80s, the playful yet intricate grooves of Groovus Maximus, or the mature swagger of Grand Explosivos, the band has shown that they can evolve without losing their essence. Shady Side Of Town continues that tradition, delivering a concise, potent dose of fun, attitude, and musicianship that fans will devour.
In just a short runtime, the EP manages to feel both timeless and immediate. It’s a reminder that the Electric Boys remain masters of their craft, capable of making music that grooves, rocks, and sticks in your head long after the final note fades. For anyone craving funky riffs, melodic hooks, and an unshakeable sense of joy in rock ’n’ roll, Shady Side Of Town is a perfect dose of Electric Boys magic.
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