ULTRA Q’S SOPHOMORE ALBUM ‘EMPTY EDDY’ IS BREAKOUT MATERIAL
Ultra Q is a true punk rock unit from the Bay Area, and they are formerly known as Mt. Eddy. This group has been hitting the underground scene under this moniker for around 5 years, playing live shows in unlikely spots and generating new audiences. If you haven’t gotten the chance to check out their live show yet, you should.
The first time I saw them, they played a warehouse in a Chula Vista alley, their stage two risers stacked against each other in a corner. I can’t remember the other bands on the bill, but I have since seen many more Ultra Q sets, with unforgettable guitar riffs and haunting melodies guiding the way.
Last year, their debut record showcased a lot of their potential. Ultra Q is amazing at working together; each member of the group brings forth a personality that cannot be forged, coming forward in each track given their years of experience playing music together. It’s a unique chemistry that isn’t present within a lot of rock groups. This is one of the first rock bands in our generation to do it the old-fashioned way, successfully, because they audibly share a passion for it.
This year, ‘Empty Eddy’ calls back to the Mt. Eddy days in a very obvious way, but focuses on the band’s growth as individuals and a group. The lead single “Waiting” encapsulates this ideology exceptionally well. It’s a strong lead; you don’t need any of the band’s context to enjoy it, which is crucial for a group at this stage, as they focus on expansion. The mix is clean, the lyrics are clear, and the chorus is catchy. If it’s your Ultra Q 101, you’re in a really good spot.
The follow-up track is softer than a lot of frontman Jakob Armstrong’s prior lyricism. It’s a nice side of him to see, one that is optimistically engaging in vulnerability with his audience and, seemingly, himself. There is not a smidge of snark to be seen throughout the entire thing, which is nice because the song is called “Beep Boop.”
Those who attend the live shows are in for a real treat by the time they reach “Peace of Mind,” which features vocal stylings and lyrics from lead guitarist Enzo Malaspina. His background vocals have been a set staple since the first round of shows, but hearing him at the forefront throughout this album in vastly different ways than what we’re used to is deserved. Later on, his stripped-down acoustic moment, “The Week,” marks my favorite of the whole album. I’ve been lucky enough to be arm’s length away from his mic on many occasions, my preferred spot to watch an Ultra Q set; these recordings were a long time coming. Bands giving each member the chance to explore what they’re great at ensures longevity. Switching out the spotlight now and then makes me hopeful for many more Ultra Q albums to come.