Record Review

Cobra Skulls – Eagle Eyes

Artist Cobra Skulls
Label Fat Wreck Chords
Catalog # FAT261
Year 2012
Format Vinyl - 7"
Rock Punk

# Cobra Skulls – Eagle Eyes

Cobra Skulls emerged from the vibrant punk and ska scene of the American West, building a reputation for energetic live performances and straightforward, no-frills songwriting. By 2012, the band had already established themselves as fixtures in the underground punk community, known for their commitment to DIY ethics and melodic sensibilities that balanced aggression with accessibility.

Released on Fat Wreck Chords, a legendary independent label synonymous with quality punk rock, the Eagle Eyes seven-inch represents a snapshot of the band during their active recording period. The format choice itself reflects both the band's punk roots and the vinyl collector market's resurgence in the 2010s. Fat Wreck's endorsement lent credibility to this release, positioning Cobra Skulls within a lineage of respected punk acts.

The A-side, "Eagle Eyes," is a four-minute punk anthem that showcases the band's ability to craft memorable hooks without sacrificing the raw energy that defines their sound. The track balances distorted guitars with vocal melodies that stick in the listener's head long after the needle lifts. The B-side offers two contrasting pieces: "Internal War" delivers a brief sonic jab at just over a minute, serving as an interlude of sorts, while "Walk Away" extends to nearly three minutes, providing a more developed counterpoint to the heavier A-side.

This seven-inch captures Cobra Skulls at a moment of creative confidence, delivering straightforward punk rock that respects both the format's history and contemporary punk sensibilities. It remains an essential grab for collectors seeking authentic mid-2010s underground punk.

Tracklist

Tracks
  1. A. Eagle Eyes (4:02)
Side B
  1. 1 Internal War (1:02)
  2. 2 Walk Away (2:44)