8/10
There are albums that aim for introspection, and then there are albums that burst through the door like a house party already in full swing. Gee Whiz!’s debut record 'How To Manage A Crisis' falls gloriously into the latter category as a vibrant, high-energy collection that turns uncertainty into pure musical exhilaration.
Formed in Bologna by a group of seasoned musicians whose past projects span a wide cross-section of Italy’s alternative scene, Gee Whiz! arrive sounding like a band that thrives on creative chemistry. From the first moments of the record, the group leap straight into a whirlwind of buzzing guitars, infectious rhythms, and irresistible melodic hooks.
The opening track 'Hide & Seek' immediately sets the tone with a sense of communal spirit. The imagery of voices joining together across distances perfectly captures the ethos running through the entire album.
Across its ten tracks, the album moves with exhilarating momentum. The band’s sound blends jangling pop instincts with the raw edge of alternative rock, creating a landscape that feels both nostalgic and refreshingly alive. Fuzzy guitar textures collide with soaring melodies, while propulsive bass lines and energetic drumming keep everything surging forward.
One of the record’s standout moments 'Big Fireworks' explodes with restless energy and playful chaos, capturing the feeling of youthful rebellion and late-night escapism with electrifying precision. The guitars crackle with distortion, the rhythm section races ahead, and the entire band seems to be chasing the thrill of the moment.
Throughout the album, the influence of classic British guitar music lingers in the background, but Gee Whiz! avoid simple imitation. They channel that spirit of experimentation and camaraderie into something distinctly their own.
Ultimately, 'How To Manage A Crisis' is about confronting personal problems with noise, laughter, and the unifying power of music. Gee Whiz!'s debut LP is a reminder that sometimes the best response to chaos is simply turning the volume up and diving headfirst into the moment.
