Tripwire DC formed late 2015 in Perthshire Scotland, Band members are Currently David McCallum Lead Vocals, Ian Kay Guitar and Backing Vocals, Peter Morrison Drums and Backing Vocals, Rich McGlashan Bass and Backing Vocals. Dark Alley album was recorded in 2017 and self-released, the band played gigs and festivals all over Scotland, Including Punktoberfest in Dundee, Fife Punk Fest, Punk Farm (which is held on Rich’s own farm) plus regular gigs in Glasgow, Edinburgh and Dundee. The band have been main support act to the likes of UK Subs, The Vibrators, Jaya the Cat and Los Fastidios. The band have played gigs in the North East and North West of England, including Nice N Sleazy Festival, plus other dates in Morecambe, Lancaster and Manchester. They played at The Star and Garter, plus were main support for Dirt Box Disco at Rebellion in Manchester. In 2018 they played Rebellion Introducing Stage, they had lots of gigs lined up for 2020, but sadly that was not to be due to Covid 19. Once restrictions have been eased Tripwire DC will be recording their second album. This is a truly DIY band, from getting together, self-releasing an album and getting out there.
I have known Rich (bass) for a couple of years now, always having a pint and a chat at gigs and fests, yet never having seen Tripwire. When he told me, he was a farmer up in Scotland, it struck me how the hell did he and the band manage to form in the first place, let alone tour and rehearse, what with the amount of work I know that goes with being a farmer. True dedication and the love for music was a clear and honest answer. A group of people who love what they do, with passion and energy. I take my hat off to all of them. So, when I first herd (see what I did there !) this album took me by surprise(bearing in mind I have not seen them live), expecting the usual, heavy in ya face punk/ska, I quickly found it is more of a chilled upbeat style, not taking anything away from the punk side of things, this is an album you can listen to at any time of the day or whatever frame of mind you’re in. the more I listen to it, the more you hear, and believe me, I’ve probably played it around 20 times. A cracking album, varying styles, and vocal ranges to match. You will hear the Caribbean lilt in the some of the vocals, without it sounding like mimicry, I also hear some Lydon going on Caribbean in there. All in all, a great album where everyone will find sommat to catch their imagination.
Jesus Buddha Mohammed
A nice slow steady reggae back beat opens this intriguing track, bringing together different religions, seeking comfort. The analogy in this one being a “long Scottish winter” and all the hardships it brings. Clever use of guitar distortion throughout, echoing chord changes and vocals that resonate sharply. A foot tapping slow tune to gently rest ya aching limbs after a hard day’s graft in the field.
Hey Mr Reggae
Fantastic reggae guitar work with a repeating riff throughout, reminiscent of the old Egyptian sand dance tune, one that makes ya shoulders do that thing, ya know what I mean. Lyrical interpretation will be left to you to draw your own conclusions. One of my fave tracks on the album, a tune to drive to and lose ya self in the reggae influence
Reggae for the Rich Boys
A song for the sell outs. Primarily the reggae sound, but could easily apply across the board. Oh, how we have bastardised music, using for personal gain and wealth. The loss of the heart and soul of the sound. A music originally from the heart and for the people. A sad song with a genuine feel for the need to regain what its all about. Reggae beat with a rock interlude in the middle. Chilled and important at the same time message to all.
Stand Up
A short and musically upbeat track, quicker tempo dancey type of toon. Great bass line with a boss vocal telling us to stand up to those in power, the fat cats and millionaires. Cracking tune with a message of joy, to get up and dance to the beat and flip that middle finger to the money bags.
Count to Ten
Nice distortion lead opens this song of hope to find love and the bravado to speak to the girl of your dreams. Counting to 10, take a breath, to find that bit of courage to take that first step. To then see her in a bar with another man, the feeling of abject rejection and wanting the earth to swallow you up. Perhaps sometimes its best just to walk away and not have to deal with the hurt.
Dark Alley
Edging away from the ska/reggae feel, this song exposes the dark corridors of our mind where the demons prevail. Musically a busy piece of work, twangy guitar riffs all the way through weaving nicely with a contemporary bass line. At one point we are even given a little 70’s funk slap style guitar rendition. Ah the good old days. Yes, a dark song, with a warning that if the demons go, they can always return. Love this track.
Isolation
Vocals this time from Rich, vastly different from David, but impacting all the same. A song of being alone and not finding yaself, but having a real need for the human touch and to know the feeling of belonging. Many people, some we know, most we don’t, are in the sad situation of “isolation”. This song can also be seen as getting away from the rat race and finding something new. Lovely backing vocals from Eilidh here, complimenting Rich nicely.
Strawberry Boy
A more rock n rolly track this time, good old fashioned short chords, heavy drum work and in ya face lyrics, almost 70’s prog stylie. A quirky little ditty pertaining to the desire for strawberries, explained by the desire to enter the room and be drawn to the sweet red shades and tangy bouquet of a bowl of strawberries. Needles to say, this could be another analogy of desire, reaching out to get what you want in life. If the opportunity Is there, take it. Strange but compelling song.
Don’t wanna be like You
A bassy opening with Lydonesque vocals, backed up again by Eilidh with an almost operatic range. An easy message to get across about the self-centred egotists we love to hate who go thru life at the expense of others, not wanting to “be like you”.an almost trippy tune straight from the 60’s what with Eildh’s vocals. To all the assholes out there, turn around and walk away, ya not worth the effort
I Hate Clowns
Crazy messy tune, Devoesque format with vocals reminding me of Howard Devoto. Aww Rich, why don’t ya like clowns, they’re ace, in an “IT” kinda way. An impassioned opinion from Rich. Or, is there a deeper message here. Whatcha think?!
Not Finished
Nice sliding guitar riffs of the Gilmour ish style in here. A song of acceptance “what ya see is what ya get”. Like it or lump it, I’m here to stay is the simple message. Been there, seen it, done it. Dual vocals in this one between Rich and Dave, complimenting each other well. At the end of the day, we are what we are, and if you don’t like, there’s the door.
Words: Johnny, Images: Band Media
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Albums and Merchandise: https://tripwiredc.bigcartel.com/
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