As has been known to happen with some artists I discover, I’m late to the Bikini Beach party. Though, in my defense, a quick Google search brings up very little information—mostly leading to another band with the same name but a completely different vibe. The Bikini Beach I’m reviewing is not a surf rock band. Instead, they’re a dirty, grungy, garage rock outfit, and apparently, Cursed is their seventh release.
After hearing Cursed, I’m definitely diving into their back catalog because this album is fantastic. Stylistically, it’s a full-throttle rock show. Some tracks bring to mind early White Stripes (Last Words, 1986), while others lean into an Alice Cooper-esque theatrical grit (Beg for Mercy). There’s also a strong ’90s riot grrrl influence, particularly on Family. The influences are broad, but Bikini Beach still carve out their own identity—raw, punchy, and brimming with energy.
This isn’t an album that rests on its laurels. It’s frantic, fast, and unrelenting, charging forward with garage-rock urgency and a grimy intensity that feels completely unfiltered. Every track hits hard, keeping the momentum high from start to finish.
Lyrically, Bikini Beach doesn’t shy away from weighty themes. They tackle personal struggles with a raw, emotional edge but also take on broader, more global issues, including political and environmental concerns. There’s an anger and urgency to the lyrics that match the frenetic energy of the music—no filler, no unnecessary polish, just pure, unfiltered rock ‘n’ roll.
If you like your rock loud, messy, and unapologetically gritty, Cursed is an album well worth your time. Bikini Beach may not be the easiest band to track down online, but they’re one you’ll want to keep an ear out for.
‘Cursed’ is out now and you can get it here
Bikini Beach Socials- Instagram/Facebook
Review by Hayley Foster da Silva
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