Classic rock meets contemporary in the debut album from SoCal band Carpool Tunnel. 

Bloom finds the perfect marriage of surf rock and pop punk creating songs that make listeners want to both be at the beach and in a mosh pit. Heavily inspired by Californian classic rock of the 60’s and 70’s, Carpool Tunnel brings a modern flair to the style. Among many tracks on Bloom you will hear guitar-riff reminiscent of 60’s rock hits but feel rejuvenated by the accompanying modern drum fills. 

Like any modern love story, the band formed through the app Vampr, which has been dubbed the Tinder for musicians. In 2017, drummer Daniel Stauffer came across an ad for a drummer, and shortly after found himself in the studio with guitarist Bradely Kearsley and singer/guitarist Ben Koppenjan. After recording their debut single “Afterlight”, adding bassit Spencer Layne to the band, and a $400 Craiglist van, the four-piece hit the road bringing their Californian aesthetic and retro sound all over the West Coast. 

Carpool Tunnel signed to Pure Noise Records in late 2020 and the band was quick to announce their debut album and release new music. Having recorded Bloom the year prior the band we’re itching to show these songs to the world.

The first single “Empty Faces” has become a live set staple, as it perfectly captures the juxtaposition of sound Carpool Tunnel work to achieve. This track, as well as many others reflect on the way relationships function in the modern day. Koppenjan explains “We all have people from our past you don’t really talk to anymore but still have a strange connection to”. The track explores the idea of no longer knowing a person who once had a relationship with but you still feel a connection to them because you see them frequently through social media. 

Listeners get an array of classic California music feel throughout the album. From the bossa nova flavored “Tarot Cards” to bouncy, angular “Flora”.

Bloom feels like sunshine peeking through the dark clouds. Tackling the uncertainty that comes with navigating life’s newness and always presenting obstacles while heading into adulthood. Carpool Tunnel attempts to bring listeners the same solace in their music they themselves have found in the music of others.  

You can stream Bloom out now, wherever you stream music.

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