Recharge

“Recharge” The Tambo Rays
Oakland’s Tambo Rays return with an upbeat, danceable synth-pop-rock EP, their sophomore effort after a five-year hiatus. The five songs feature catchy melodies, snappy rhythms and lush arrangements — with lyrics that deal with life’s trials and tribulations (the father of brother and sister co-founders, Brian and Sara DaMert, died in 2015) — yet with surprisingly positive messages. Lots of energy in these tunes! RIYL: Blondie, Grimes, Bikini Kills.
— Francis

Recommended: 1, 3 or 4.

1. (3:23) Yes and No – Sunny synth-pop-rock with a fun, punky, girl-band kind of attitude. Crisp drumming. Late 70s, early 80s feeling. ****
2. (3:38) Always Down – Bright, bouncy high-energy romp with glistening synths and a propulsive rhythm.
3. (4:36) Wrong Turn – Mid-tempo, smooth and slinky. Full arrangement with wavy synth strings and solid drumming. An anthem feeling. ****
4. (3:02) Nothing to Lose – Another punky-pop-rock number that explodes with intricate interplay between sharp guitars and sparkling synths — plus nice backing vocals. Electronic synth-based rhythm harkens back to Michael Sembello-like dance-pop. ****
5. (3:52) Get It Right Now – Synth-pop-rock with more of a stop ‘n’ go rhythm and lots of dynamic changes. Lyrics say, “To find your love, it does take time/To fall in love, it does take time.”