Album Review: Baam Jaam by The WPP – A Quirky Indie Rock Gem from 2003
Released under Substandard Records in 2003, Baam Jaam by The WPP is a curious blend of rock and pop/rock that leans heavily into the indie rock aesthetic. Hailing from the US, this album doesn’t pretend to be anything it’s not—raw, unfiltered, and teeming with personality. It’s the kind of record you stumble upon in a used CD bin at a thrift store and end up playing on repeat because it just sticks with you.
Right off the bat, let’s talk about “White Guy On An Island.” This track grabs your attention not just for its repetitive title but for how it perfectly encapsulates the band's tongue-in-cheek humor and knack for storytelling. Lyrically, it paints an absurd yet oddly relatable picture—a fish-out-of-water tale wrapped in self-deprecating wit. The melody has this driving energy that feels like a mix between Pavement and early Weezer, if they decided to collaborate after one too many cups of coffee. There’s something about the way the guitars chug along while the vocals deliver lines with deadpan precision that makes it unforgettable.
Another standout is “Osama Bin-Fashion,” which might sound like a questionable choice for a song title even today, let alone back in 2003. But don’t get it twisted—this isn’t some shock-value gimmick. Instead, it’s a biting critique disguised as a catchy anthem. The chorus hooks you immediately, blending sharp social commentary with a danceable rhythm that almost tricks you into forgetting the weight of the subject matter. It’s clever without being preachy, and honestly? That takes skill.
What strikes me most about Baam Jaam is how unapologetically itself it is. Tracks like “Leaders Are For Followers” double down on themes of anti-authoritarianism and skepticism, delivered with a mix of sarcasm and earnestness that feels refreshingly human. Sure, there are moments where the production could’ve been tighter (hello, budget constraints), but that rough-around-the-edges quality adds charm rather than detracting from it. You can tell these guys weren’t trying to chase trends—they were making music for themselves, damn the consequences.
If I had to nitpick, the repetition of certain tracks (“I Think I Just Lost A Country” shows up twice) feels unnecessary, almost like filler material. But hey, maybe that was intentional? Who knows with these guys?
Reflecting on Baam Jaam, what stands out isn’t just the music—it’s the attitude. Listening to this album feels like hanging out with old friends who have strong opinions and zero filter. And honestly, we need more of that in today’s overly polished musical landscape. Funny enough, my biggest takeaway wasn’t any profound lyrical insight or groundbreaking riff; it was realizing that sometimes, imperfection is exactly what makes art stick. Oh, and also? Indie rock dudes really love talking about eagles. Go figure.
Rating: 7.5/10
