"Be Good" marks a fantastic entry for Kraken Waker, establishing them as a band to watch in the local scene and beyond
By Stephen Cummings
(Image: © Kraken Waker)
For anyone hailing from Newcastle Upon Tyne, news of Kraken Waker's début album "Be Good" has no doubt been met with much anticipation. Thankfully, this hard-hitting release is not only worth the wait, but it's a stellar introduction to a band brimming with energy and creativity.
This album is powerfully opened with "Loan Shark Business Park," an instant hook of sorts that really sets up the infectious riffs and catchy hooks that meld groove metal, stoner rock, and psych rock into something all their own. The production is slick but still retains enough grit for those who love this kind of music.
The standout track "Space Bastard" really lets on with a stick-in-your-head quality as to what this band Kraken Waker is truly capable of. With such lyrics as "Space Bastard, get fucking ass back down here, pay your taxes and we'll spend the rest on whiskey and beer," this is one catchy observation-an anthem if you will-to those who love a good time.
Really, this track is a good example of how they merge humor and acuteness into witty songs that keep listeners interested and wanting more. Other standouts include the title track "Be Good, Get Good or Give Up," really showcasing that the band can balance heavy instrumentation with real thought-provoking lyrics; "Wah Boot," a real fun, riffy jam; and "Born With a Beard," rounding the album out with gritty finesse. It's a collection in which every song finds its place; cohesive yet dynamic, flowing from start to finish.
All in all, "Be Good" is a fantastic starting point which would position Kraken Waker among the bands to watch, locally and Beyond. Also, as it will be disclosed later, their fans will be pleased to learn that they will be able to witness them live in full electrical splendor. See them support fellow Newcastle band Crowley at The Lubber Fiend on November 22nd, and of course at our own Get HEAVY Festival on August 16-17, 2025 at Downcast Studios. As I would say, this is indeed just the beginning. I am extremely excited to see where Kraken Waker would take us next. In other words, if you are into heavy grooves and psychedelic vibes sprinkled with humor, "Be Good" is not an album which shall slip away from you.
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