Carousel KingsPlus Ultra

Into finger pointing and a bit of head bopping? We have the album for you.

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Plus Ultra is the fifth studio album from Carousel Kings and it sees them dive headfirst into bouncy pop punk territory. Scratching that early 2000’s itch, the four piece have dabbled in some majorly retro vibes. But despite this, and the insane amount of guest appearances on the record (there’s ten across the eleven tracks if you were counting), their voice still shines through and oh boy is it a positive one.

Like an injection of warm, sunshiny goodness, the LP has all the ingredients to get us moving and grooving. With their funky AF guitar moments (see: Lock Meowt) and ukulele and saxophone features (see: Shelter); the Lancaster, PA outfit have spread infectious vibes and happy singalongs. The real power of Plus Ultra is its ability to shed the security blanket and break out of the box though.

Like an injection of warm, sunshiny goodness, the LP has all the ingredients to get us moving and grooving.

Sure, pop punk melodies anchor the record at large, but that’s not all it has to offer. Taking us to shred city, the band throw in a healthy dose of layered riffs and electronic elements. There are even bouts of easycore experimentation (see: the very A Day to Remember inspired track, Truth Seekers). Pop punk bands may be a dime a dozen, but it’s this experimentation that really sets Carousel Kings apart- that, and their relentless enthusiasm.

Dropping certified bop after bop, Plus Ultra sees Carousel Kings answer the question—what would happen if we just created an album full of bangers?

STANDOUT TRACKS: Move Slow, Ghost, Monarch
STICK THIS NEXT TO: Yellowcard, The Ataris, New Found Glory