Last Friday saw the release of emerging pop-punk star Lauran Hibberd’s debut album ‘Garageband Superstar’, which received raving reviews from NME, DIY and Clash Magazine before the album dropped.
From the get-go with the single ‘Rollercoaster’, Lauran radiates huge 90s punk energy, nostalgic to that of early 00s chick-flick film soundtracks. You would think by starting on such a powerful high, that’s supported by overdriven electric guitar and a punchy drum groove, that surely the energy would HAVE to come down at some point? Wrong! Even during the musically stripped back tracks such as ‘Last Song Ever’, which even features a mind-clearing meditation from Lauran at the beginning, the dedication and strong emotion cuts through her intimate lyrics based off her personal anecdotes – she really gives you no less than 110% all the way through.
Her dry, deadpan and sarcastic humour really completes the album, executed perfectly to allow insight into Lauran’s personality and attitude, and portraying her life experiences through witty words. You don’t just listen to the songs, you connect with them, smirking along with certain phrases – there’s at least something relatable to everyone in this album. Lauran’s intelligence throughout allows her to connect on a deeper level with her audience, and offers a sense of companionship.
Often, I feel debut albums don’t offer a true representation of an artist, that they’re subdued and shy, not ready to put themselves out their to the world yet – and this seems understandable enough. But with Lauran Hibberd, she came out guns blazing, with sheer confidence and has well and truly made her stamp in today’s pop-punk scene.
If you’re going to do anything this bank holiday – I urge you to stream ‘Garageband Superstar’ here.
Catch Lauran at this years Neighbourhood Festival!