It may come as a surprise, but there is nearly 20 years of history behind recent Small Step Records signee, Sam's the Hero. Originally known as Sons of Noah, the band wrote and recorded a whole album before changing the name and settling on their genre. The album was eventually lost to time (or at least isn't available to buy or stream), but select songs have now been resurrected for Sam's the Hero's new EP, Charlie Cox.

The four songs the band chose for this EP were not simply put together in their original states. No, the band went back into the studio with their now-years of experience and completely re-recorded and remastered them. I haven't heard the originals, but it stands to reason that Charlie Cox sounds considerably better.

The songs draw heavily from the punk and pop punk sounds that dominated the early '00s. Right off the bat, "I'll Try" brings to mind artists like MxPx and Craig's Brother, and "Bad Song" features the kind of riffing and bass lines that might make you think that there's also some Slick Shoes influence. Meanwhile, "Army of Blank Pages" goes less punk and explores more of an alt rock sound, with a slightly slower pace and a good dose of piano. The lyrics of the album match the overall genre, too, with songs about love and heartache. "An Afterwards Anthem" describes a beautiful, sunny day that turns dark as the singer recalls his lost love. The song is peak emo, as the lyrics may be a little cheesy, but would also have been relatable to a younger me during some break-ups: "I wish you could hear this song I sing / know that I still love you and please understand that I / wish you the best in everything / even if you find it inside someone else's eyes."

I've been patiently waiting for new material from Sam's the Hero since they dropped their Small Step debut single "Chase the Daylight" last year. While I continue to wait for brand new material, this collection of old songs made new is a nice little platter of hors d'oeuvres. If you like old school Tooth & Nail-style pop punk, give this one a listen for sure.

- Review date: 10/31/24, written by Scott Fryberger of Jesusfreakhideout.com

Record Label: Small Step Records
Album length: 4 tracks: 14 minutes, 59 seconds
Street Date: November 1, 2024
Buy It: Small Step Records (CD)

1. I'll Try (4:24)
2. An Afterwards Anthem (3:47)
3. Army of Blank Pages (3:22)
4. Bad Song (3:24)