Carousel Kings - Plus Ultra Album Review

Review by: Brittany Swigert

I recently had the opportunity to listen to Plus Ultra, the upcoming release from Carousel Kings and it certainly gave me a lot to talk about. To start off, this album has so much to offer its listeners, from guest features, to instrumental experimentation, and the sound fans fell in love with since day one. Plus Ultra brings back a classic pop punk sound that still manages to include a lot of new elements. It is the perfect mix of nostalgia and experimental innovation that sets it apart from other albums being released right now.
The album features eleven unique tracks that were written while the band was touring in 2018. While listening I was reminded of so many groups it would be hard to pin down what I could compare the album to. It felt like catching up with an old friend after being apart for years. William’s guitar and Cody’s bass provide such a wonderful flow that drives each track through David’s catchy melodies and some incredible drum work from Danny. With guest features on all but three tracks you are sure to hear a few familiar voices.

The titular track opens the album featuring a great melody with some fantastic high-pitched vocals and really sets the stage for the rest of the record. The band also experimented with electronic sounds across the entire album and even included musical instruments they had not previously experimented with on “Shelter”. The Single “Code Breaker (Smile)” has been stuck in my head off and on since it popped up on my release radar on Spotify and the rest of the album brings the same great energy. Plus Ultra goes so far past what I expected really earning it’s name. Mark your calendars, this album is set to release on May 31 and you do not want to miss it.

Michael Phillips