Terrible Thrills

Steel Train’s self-titled third LP continues where its predecessor Trampoline left off: venturing further into a pop abyss, showcasing an eclectic blend of influences that retreat from the band’s earlier folk/jamband association. Produced by Steven McDonald (Be Your Own Pet, Imperial Teen), Steel Train is the group’s first LP under its own label Terrible Thrills after departing from Drive-Thru Records. Fueled by symptoms of musical nostalgia, the band channels late-‘80s arena rock in the fist-pumping track “Bullet” and mid-‘90s aggressive punk in “You are Dangerous.” The songs lay down the groundwork for 12 individual anthems that are undeniably addicting in their own right. Peppered with party tunes and mix tape ballads, Steel Train also highlights singer/songwriter Jack Antonoff’s extensive vocal ability. “Turnpike Ghost” channels the lisp-tinged wails of Isaac Brock while “You and I Undercover” mirrors the eerily pleasant crackling cries of Ben Folds. The concluding lullaby “Fall Asleep” showcases Antonoff’s calming resonance, uncovering a softer, gentler timbre that’s a rare breed on this album. Fusing elements from across the musical spectrum, Steel Train is in a class of its own, flexing an array of genre blending creativity and joyous keg party pop injections.