Album Review: I Wonder Why by Smartyz
Alright, buckle up, because we’re diving into Smartyz’s 2009 electronic banger I Wonder Why. If you’re into hardcore and happy hardcore vibes with that Canadian twist (yeah, apparently Canada does more than maple syrup and hockey), this one might just slap harder than your morning coffee. Released under Kanibalz Digitalz, it’s got that raw energy only a genre like hardcore can deliver. And props to Robin Petras for mastering—this thing sounds tighter than my jeans after Thanksgiving dinner.
Now, let’s talk tracks. The title track, “I Wonder Why,” hits you right outta the gate. It’s got those euphoric synths that feel like someone injected serotonin straight into your ears. You know when you’re at a party and suddenly everyone starts jumping in unison? Yeah, this is THAT song. It’s impossible not to move to—it’s like your body has no choice but to surrender. Also, there’s something oddly nostalgic about it, even if you weren’t around in the ‘90s rave scene. Maybe it’s the way the beat builds up before dropping like an emotional bomb. Or maybe I’m just overthinking while trying not to spill my drink on the dance floor. Either way, it sticks.
Another standout is… well, honestly, most of the other tracks blur together after a few listens (don’t @ me). But hey, isn’t that kinda the charm of albums like this? They’re less about individual songs and more about creating a vibe. Still, “I Wonder Why” keeps looping in my head like an earworm that refuses to leave—and frankly, I don’t hate it.
Here’s the kicker though: listening to this album feels like stepping into a time machine set to Y2K panic mode mixed with rainbows and lasers. Like, imagine raving in some underground warehouse where everyone’s wearing neon and glowsticks, except now it’s 2023 and you’re sitting in your living room eating chips. Weird flex, but okay.
Final thought? This album proves that sometimes music doesn’t need to reinvent the wheel—it just needs to make you wanna spin it real fast. So grab your air drums, crank up the volume, and remember why happy hardcore still slaps. Oh, and shoutout to Smartyz for keeping the spirit alive. Now excuse me while I go figure out how to unclench my jaw from all the smiling.
