Launching into January 2024 with an explosive entrance, Action Boys sets the stage on fire with “Shadows Keep” – an album that encapsulates the essence of energetic power thrash punk. The Hays, KS-based group, led by the charismatic Jordan Rome, formed in 2017 and has given us one hell of a sophomore recording.
The album immediately grabs your attention upon the first listen with its ripping guitar licks and Jordan’s smoky vocals. The intense energy and make-you-want-to-mosh vibe are undeniable. The instrumentation, featuring Jordan Rome (Vocals, Rhythm Guitar), Damian Wenrich and Nick Schmidt (Drums), Kirby Schlyer (Bass), Nevin Truan (Lead Guitar), and Kyle Williams (Guitar), perfectly aligns with the band’s self-proclaimed genre of “Power Rock.”
The album is a fantastic ride from start to finish, but it definitely has some standout tracks, such as “Leave Me To My Demons.” This song explores the pain of loss, haunting grief, exhaustion, and lingering trauma of death. Listeners will be taken along on an emotional rollercoaster, moving from verses full of anger to deep-in-your-bones sadness found in the howling “Woah” at the end of the chorus. The track initially appeared on Jordan Rome’s 2019 album “7 Songs for the Soulless,” a detour from its country/folk origin (think along the lines of Ben Nichols/Lucero) showcasing the songwriter’s versatility.
Then there’s “Bone Crusher.” The title doesn’t lie – it goes hard. Imagine a percussive chug riff that’s basically a musical war march. And the “Bone Crusher” chant? We are all now part of the Bone Crusher Army *gives a salute* This track is two and a half minutes of stank face stomp.
“Break the Grave” is a phenomenal way to cap off the album with its driving energy and face-melting guitar breaks. Evident in this song and beyond, the production quality is notably a step up from the band’s 2018 album. Carter Green at Greenjeans Studios took the reins for recording, mixing, and mastering the album, underscoring the band’s elevated commitment to quality and showcasing their refined musicianship.
“Shadows Keep” reveals deep lyrics, perfectly placed guitar riffs, and an exceptionally tight recording. While the songs are relatively short, as is common in the metal/punk/thrash genres, I couldn’t help but desire to hear one or two longer-form compositions and wouldn’t mind a few epics in a future record.
Action Boys manage to blend their own fresh energy with a sprinkle of nostalgia for thrash crossover legends like Suicidal Tendencies and Anthrax. I thoroughly enjoy their ability to blend the untamed energy of punk with the intricate madness of speed metal. They’ve found that sweet spot of grit and musical finesse on “Shadows Keep.”
So, what’s next for Action Boys? Well, it’s a mystery. According to Rome, they’re on a hiatus without a full-time drummer, and this album is just a release to clear his desk. Despite this uncertainty about the band’s future, “Shadows Keep” should be acknowledged as a release born from two years of hard work, dedication, and the undeniable heart poured into the music. It’s a raw energy showcase, a testament to skillful musicianship, and a vessel for profound storytelling. I doubt the album will be the last we hear from this talented band. Here’s hoping we catch them live someday, fists in the air, soaking in the glory of Action Boys.
