Bad Sauna's last effort was full-on 90s pre-emo punk with a fuzzy chaser. This time around, the boys dig even deeper into the past channelling an almost-perfect mashup of Superchunk and Jawbox (which, admittedly, isn't exactly the most difficult fusion around). There's a lot more space in the sound, and there's even the occasional raggedy melody.

Bad Sauna Kerro sille miltä susta tuntuu (All that Plazz)

And yes, all the songs are in Finnish. So I have no idea what the lyrics are, but the music is a good indicator. Some joy, some rage and a fair amount of wonder. It's always fascinating hearing a sound reflected across the ocean. Bad Sauna has done a good job of honoring its influences and creating its own personal space as well.

Perhaps it's just me flashing back to those halcyon college days where it seemed everything remained possible, but that's the feeling I get listening to this. The loose production leaves a bit of mess in the sound, and (without knowing the lyrics) that seems to fit perfectly. When the songs feel a need to kick into full anthem mode, the results are glorious.

This is the second Bad Sauna album I've heard, and both are stellar. Yes, there's whole wheelhouse thing, but few bands are plying these waters these days, and non are doing it this well. Let this calm your soul--and inspire you to find greatness, whatever that might be.

Jon Worley