Bloodorama is a Switzerland-based indie rock band, that is bringing their unique sound straight to audiences everywhere with their debut album Who Loved Diana Bueller? The band is led by Archy Snuggle Thompson who is also accompanied by The Hearty Hobnobbers and together they form Bloodorama. Immediately, you get the sense that the band caters to the indie and pop rock genres with huge odes to such acts like Jack Johnson, Bruce Springsteen, Sugar Cult, Frank Zappa, Thomas Pynchon and more. From mellow acoustic to adrenaline-rushing anthems and some very dance-worthy tunes, the band will definitely rock your socks off with their huge riffs and attention-grabbing melodies.
Who Loved Diana Bueller? opens up with “Dream! Dream! California, Pt. 1,” which comes out with Thompson’s vocals accompanied by acoustic guitar. I was instantly reminded of Jack Johnson’s “Banana Pancakes.” It had an obvious California vibe that also sounded infectious. This proved to be a great intro. Synths come through alongside some guitars on “Dog Days.” The sound grows as some keys and a drumming beat joins in. Thompson’s vocals are an alluring whisper as a hushed sense of expectancy settles over the track. This reminded me of Sugar Cult and Two Door Cinema Club. A jaunty beat arrives that has a meandering approach on “Hungry Love.” This was a unique dance song since it included the word ‘stultification’ which I’ve never seen before.
Right from the get-go, I was getting some old school rock vibes from “Hometown Queen.” It had touches of ‘50s and ‘60s rock as well as some ‘80s instances. A drumming beat and some chimes add an unconventional sound to “Daddy’s Nuke.” What sounded like bongos and some electric guitar riffs reel in an eerie sound. There was tons of mood and feeling to this song, which made it really fun-loving. Some bass lines enter for a bluesy sound on “You Alone.” Thompson’s vocals are a hushed whisper as he sets the stage for this rock track. I was immediately getting some Bruce Springsteen vibes. Next, the sound opens up for a rollicking rock sound.
On “Bleeding Town,” a meandering piano tune arrives. It was definitely giving off lounge vibes. Next, Thompson’s vocals come in alongside some synths. His vocals really take flight on this soaring piano ballad. I was captivated from start to finish. On “Dream! Dream! California, Pt. 2,” more Jack Johnson vibes flow through this recording. I loved how catchy and upbeat the vibes were here. This simply rendered acoustic song was definitely a highlight to my ears. “Diana Bueller” starts off with some stripped guitars and Thompson’s vocals. It made for an emotional listen. Slowly some chimes come in. I thought this was a moving way for the band to close the album.
The band’s energy coming off these tracks are spectacular. I was loving every moment of this album and they kept me on my toes throughout. As the band members rock out and throw themselves into the music, listeners will definitely be captivated from start to finish. There are tons to appreciate here, so be sure you give this a spin today!
Heather Savage