After an eleven year split, Minneapolis punk rockers The Soviet Machines are officially back.

Inspired by their newfound time in quarantine and the renewed friendship between founding members Jack Swagger and Marcus Jones, the band recruited new bassist in Rich Salsbury and set off to record an album with producer Jack Endino, best known for his work with Nirvana and Soundgarden.

And now, to properly kick off the new year, the band have just released their new self titled album.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CeWp2aDUxX4

Featuring a sound inspired by indie and punk acts such as the Thermals, the Misfits, and the Replacements, the sound of The Soviet Machines is filled with angst, fearlessness, and sweet riffs. 

Beginning back in November, the Soviet Machines gave fans the first look at the album with lead single “Get Your Kicks,” providing the perfect sample of what was next to come. The song is a punchy and energetic thrillride, which also provides the overarching theme to the whole album: “Get your kicks while you can, because they won’t last.” 

Lyrically, they explore a fascination with danger, following up with “You Should Kill Me,” “Baby We’re Gonna Die,” and “Two Shots (To the Back of the Head).” Unquestionably, the Soviet Machines match instrumentally, crafting aggressive, quippy songs.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=O3Ze_Jb64HU

This combination of recklessness and driving, edgy rock makes for no shortage of attention-grabbers throughout the album. Meanwhile, “All We Are” and “Better Way” are more anthemic, speaking to rising up past the people and things that have kept you down. “Bittersweet Angel” finishes out the album by showcasing the band’s softer, more tender side.

The Soviet Machines is an album for living life to the fullest, without fear of death. 

Rock on, and be sure to stream The Soviet Machines.