7/10
Jam packed with angst, Cherym’s debut album ‘Take It Or Leave It’ is a testimony to the bands work to date. With clean guitar riffs, big vocals and multiple nods to their 00s American pop-punk influences, it’s a loud and proud soundtrack for the Zillenial generation.
Honest and from the heart, the album tackles subjects such as abortion rights, being non-binary and being gay with a charmingly candid outlook. From their ADHD anthem ‘Do It Another Day’ to the ear-worm inducing ‘Taking Up Sports’, ‘Take It Or Leave It’ marries together the importance of the hard hitting issues with tongue-in-cheek catchy pop-punk tunes which emit the feeling of growing up and finding your feet.
‘Take It Or Leave It’ documents the bands progress to date, with tight hooks and progressions which prove they are every bit as polished as they are fun. While this release may mark a new trajectory for the Derry band, it also marks Cherym’s last piece of work with their original lineup, with the recent departure of bassist Nyree Dawn. With their slick sound and charming confidence however, we’re sure the remaining members will ensure that Cherym will be around for a long time to come.
‘Take It Or Leave It’ is out 16th Feb via Alcopop! Records
You can catch Cherym live at Paper Dress Vintage on 24th Feb