ALBUM REVIEW: Molotov Rocktail – Bokassa

It’s not very often a band has the privilege of supporting the mighty METALLICA, but Norwegian rockers BOKASSA have already achieved this bucket-list worthy accomplishment after trekking around Europe on their WorldWired tour in 2019. Their previous release, Crimson Riders, received rave reviews and it is now time for the trio to build on this momentum by unveiling their long awaited follow-up, entitled Molotov Rocktail, which is due for release on September 3rd via Napalm Records. What will this effort have in store?

Freelude offers up an introductory portion of crunchy riffs and enticing drum beats that builds up the anticipation for the energetic So Long Idiots!. The track is packed full of lively intensity and alluring hooks which reel you in immediately. The chorus lines cry out for audience participation and will no doubt be a part of their already impressive live arsenal. Pitchforks R Us keeps the adrenaline flowing with feel-good melodies and additional sing-along moments that are blended together with a groove drenched grittiness. Hereticules chops and changes quickly to keep you guessing. Stomping riffs and anthemic vocal work with a side order of infectious heaviness are the special of the day and they are flying out of the door.

Low (And Behold) throws some addictive riff work into the mix that is guaranteed to get you in the mood to party. This will be a surefire way to send a crowd into a frenzy. Godless is the ideal summer tune to crank up and vibe along to in the company of good friends. Packed with bouncy instrumentation and uplifting tones. Also, who doesn’t love a cowbell? Molotov Rocktail injects some red hot tempo into proceedings as it speeds off into the sunset. It may only clock in at two minutes, but it’s a punk fuelled firecracker. Burn It All (P.T.S.D.E.A.D) gets down and dirty with some exhilarating stoner grooves but doesn’t forget to slip in yet another earworm of a chorus segment.

Careless (In The Age Of Altruism) showcases an inviting prose that is laced with a rebellious mood and an ever transitioning string of angry/accessible style trade-offs. Code Red has no intention of letting this album run out of steam as it powers onwards with further bursts of dynamic energy. Immortal Space Pirate 3 Too Old For This Sith may well be one of the most outlandish titles for a song you’ll read all year, but it’s also one of the most daring endeavours BOKASSA have undertaken thus far in their career. A track approaching almost eight minutes that emits an ominously evil sound that makes sure you don’t even dare to let your attention wander for fear of missing anything. A very triumphant statement to round off a brilliant album.

BOKASSA have proved exactly why they received a glowing recommendation from Lars Ulrich by delivering a release full of stadium rock bangers that would satisfy any crowd. Molotov Rocktail may possess a cheeky, rebellious side, but as far as the musicianship is concerned it is all business. If you had somehow managed to overlook the meteoric rise of this band then it is about time you paid attention otherwise you’ll miss out on one of the most polished and enjoyable listens that 2021 has had to offer.

Rating: 9/10

Molotov Rocktail is set for release on September 3rd via Napalm Records.

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