Jim Bob - The Panic Room EP

Following the release of two CD's in August of last year, Jim Bob (founder and lead singer of the late eighties / early nineties indie rock band Carter USM) is back with The Panic Room EP.  Initially released as a signed and numbered vinyl album (now sold out), the EP is now only available digitally.  Lyrically conveying his thoughts on the state of things in England today, “Where’s The Panic Room” gets things started with a blast of punk energy that’s a bit noisy and quirky at times and fittingly does a great job of creating tension and claustrophobia.  Detailing the trials and tribulations of being in a band and touring, “Grassroots” is a fun, singalong of sorts, that switches between a head-bobbing, midtempo rock beat and synth-drenched punk.  Arguably the high point of the EP, “Belinda’s Racist Hips,” is an extremely catchy, jangly pop tune with lyrics addressing the darker side of how acceptable racism has become for so many.  The ragged garage rock of “Hope For The Best” closes things out with a bang and a fittingly somewhat optimistic, yet cynical view for the future. 

(Cherry Red Records)