Rooftop Screamers – Next Level

Michael Collins, formerly of Throwback Suburbia, has a brand new album out under the moniker Rooftop Screamers. Although Collins has written all the material, singing duties are assigned to various guest vocalists. And yet, Next Level holds together extraordinarily well. I haven’t heard a pop album this catchy in a while.

Both the recognizable names and the lesser known really deliver. Tim Smith (Jellyfish) sings “Buckle Up”, a song so catchy it would have been a hit and an MTV staple in the 80’s or 90’s. It’s got a monster hook for a chorus and the production sparkles. Ken Stringfellow (Posies) sounds great singing “One Wish”, another winner.

Dilana’s vocals have a distinctive edge to them. Together with some great guitar work, it makes the rockier “Tearin’ It Down” another memorable song in a collection of toe tappers.

The big surprise – David Paton and “Your Day Will Come”. Upon first listen, I thought I had heard this vocalist before but couldn’t place where. Collins gives us a hint within the lyrics, a really neat songwriting trick. See if you recognize his voice and can identify the song. It’ll blow you away. Oh – and “Your Day Will Come” is terrific, too.

Rooftop Screamers’ Next Level is indeed that. It’s one of 2021’s best albums and deserves your attention. Get your copy at Kool Kat Musik or the Rooftop Screamers Bandcamp page.