Review Summary: Just look at their name, you'll get the gist.
Similarly to metalcore, pop punk isn't a popular style in Poland. Sure, it has its fans, but has never risen to nearly a fraction of the prominence it enjoys abroad. To be fair, it seems to be virtually non-existent in public consciousness. Even CF98 - one of our most popular bands in the genre - aren't talked about much, despite constantly working on new music and actively touring here and abroad. Which is a shame, because they do a fine job at bringing that foreign breeze into the country.
The third long player from CF98 happens to be one of their only albums sung in Polish, which might be its biggest drawback. It's not exactly about the lyrics, although I can't help bawling out my eyes at the occasionally botched grammar...
(Let's be real.
Przyjaciół, którzy są, na oku miej is
not a naturally sounding sentence).
...it's more about the way they're being sung. We're often graced with one or two lines that beg for a few more words to form a punchline, but instead are followed by awkwardly long instrumental breaks.
Still,
"Nic do stracenia" has all it takes to be an enjoyable listen. The main point of interest is obviously Karolina Duszkiewicz, the singer and the only constans in the band's lineup. Although her vocals in the first two tracks are horrendously monotone, they improve later on - leaving us with lots of fun, upbeat melodies, occasionally assisted by gang vocals. The instrumental section isn't necessarily as memorable, but we still get a few neat riffs and hardcore edge that keeps the overall energy on a decent level. Some subtle synths pop up here and there as well, being a welcome touch on a record that tends to become stale after a while. The best executed aspect is the production. No fireworks to be heard, but the mix is pleasantly clear and greatly helps the natural, lighthearted atmosphere to thrive.
And yeah, "Nic do stracenia" is probably unoriginal and certainly cringe-inducing at times. But honestly, who cares? The music is as lite and catchy as self-respecting pop punk should be, and you can tell it came from the heart. For what it's worth, I recommend this one if you're looking for some fun summery vibes. Because that's what it is - a fun summery album, no more, no less.
