A little over two years ago, Sef Idle released the acclaimed Start Again acoustic album and now as part of the Thumper Punk Records 3 Song acoustic series, Sef Idle is back with three new acoustic tracks.
Straight from Boise, Idaho, Sef Idle’s career in music goes back at least 20 years or so and those familiar at all with his efforts will certainly recognize the bands Unisef and False Idle. Combining a sense of melody along with the biting attitude inherent in punk rock with solid musicianship and catchy sing along parts, these bands managed to gather a devoted following. During a break from the band False Idle, Sef found some time to put together some solo songs and that project ended up as the previously mentioned Start Again. The 3 Song Acoustic series from Thumper Punk Records features a monthly release from artists involved with the JCHC scene, who will each record and release three new acoustic songs and Sef happens to be one to kick off the series.
In the big picture, this is one of the easier releases to review as the songwriting, musicianship, and production is solid. To my ears, this is acoustic versions of melodic punk rocktracks. One can easily see how all of these songs could translate into full-blown punk rock anthems or work easily well in a coffee-shop setting. The live version video of “Look Around” reinforces that idea as it’s just Sef and a guitar in a studio. Listening to these tracks gives the listener an inside look at the person behind the artist and provides that rare feeling of almost like being part of the conversation. Really the only gripe one can have with the release is that it’s too short, but if that’s the case and this is new for you, be sure to go back and check out the Start Again album as well as the False Idle California or Bust ep as both of those give you more acoustic punk rock…
Rating: 9/10
Written by John Jackson
Tracklist:
1. Hindsight
2. Look Around
3. All Along
Band Members:
Sef Idle – Vocals, guitars
Record Label: Thumper Punk Records, Jan. 2017
Buy the album here:
Holland: First Paradox
Norway: Nordic Mission
Live version of ‘Look Around’