Upchuck’s new album from Atlanta punk rockers is pleasant in all aspects

It was a scorching day at the Green Man festival, and as the sun beat down, and the dust settled, almost everyone was nursing a hangover. In the midst of these conditions, a surprising experience awaited in the Far Out tent – the raw energy of UPCHUCK, a punk band signed by Domino Records. Their performance was invigorating and served as a stark contrast to what one might have expected in such a setting.

UPCHUCK’s third LP, “I’m Nice Now,” sees the Atlanta-based band collaborating once more with garage rock expert Ty Segall. Tracks like “Kept Inside” seem perfectly suited to Segall’s style, and the album features moments of dense, gritty distortion reminiscent of Bad Brains, all packed into sub-two-minute tracks. However, where the band truly shines is in their live performances. Despite Segall’s efforts to capture the raw essence of UPCHUCK in the studio, the recorded versions of the songs feel somewhat restrained, lacking the same energy and intensity that they exude on stage.

Listening to UPCHUCK’s latest album is a glimpse into the ferocious energy they bring to their live shows, an experience that cannot be fully captured in a studio recording. With their bracing blast of primal punk, UPCHUCK delivers a sound that is fierce, unapologetic, and undeniably invigorating.

In conclusion, “I’m Nice Now” by UPCHUCK is a solid addition to their discography, showcasing their signature sound with a raw edge and high-octane energy. While the album captures some of the band’s live energy, it ultimately falls short of truly capturing the essence of their unruly performances. For fans of punk and garage rock, UPCHUCK’s latest offering is sure to be a satisfying listen, but for the full experience, catching them live is the way to go.