Recommended Albums #103

The Tripwires: Get Young (2014)

The Tripwires are survivors of the 1990’s Seattle rock explosion, but don’t expect anything approximate to grunge here.

Instead, it’s lean power pop with smart lyrics and swagger, twin guitars dueling from right and left channels, catchy original melodies, and lots of harmonies.

For folks who like guitars deployed in an ebullient two-and-a-half minute burst rather than a plodding, bluesy dirge, John Ramberg and company have you covered.

One-album wonders Rockpile might be the best comparison, but honestly the Tripwires might do it better–and certainly more prolifically.

Comprised of members of bands such as Screaming Trees, the Minus 5, and Young Fresh Fellows, the Tripwires are that true anomaly: a “super group” that’s actually better than the sum of its parts.

Listen to: “Get Young”

Listen to: “Early Bright”

Listen to: “Owner Operator”

Listen to: “How in Heaven’s Name”

See also: https://edcyphers.com/2024/06/29/songs-you-may-have-missed-744/

See also: https://edcyphers.com/2020/07/04/recommended-albums-80/

Recommended Albums #80

The Tripwires: Makes You Look Around (2007)

If you expect a collection of 90’s-era, Seattle-area musicians to sound grungy, quasi-supergroup The Tripwires–made up of members of such bands as Screaming Trees, The Minus 5, Young Fresh Fellows and Supersuckers–would be a suprise.

But the surprise would be a pleasant one if you appreciate guitar pop with smart lyrics, knockout hooks, sweet guitar interplay and tasty solos.

For fans of power pop, or the pub rock of Nick Lowe, Rockpile and Dave Edmunds.

Listen to: “Arm Twister”

Listen to: “Big Electric Light”

Listen to: “Comedienne”

Listen to: “Sold Yer Guitar Blues”

See also: https://edcyphers.com/2024/06/29/songs-you-may-have-missed-744/

See also: https://edcyphers.com/2025/12/26/recommended-albums-103/