Westworld – Sonic Boom Boy

Released in 1987, “Sonic Boom Boy” was the debut single from British band Westworld, fronted by American singer Elizabeth Westwood alongside former Generation X guitarist Bob “Derwood” Andrews and drummer Nick Burton. The song introduced the band’s distinctive mixture of rockabilly, rock ‘n’ roll, punk attitude and futuristic electronic production.

The track has an infectious, high-energy feel, driven by a combination of guitars, drum-machine rhythms and sequenced electronic sounds. Elizabeth Westwood’s confident vocal delivery gives the song plenty of personality, while Andrews’ guitar work adds a raw rock ‘n’ roll edge. The unusual mixture of vintage musical influences and modern 1980s technology gave Westworld a sound that stood apart from much of the pop music surrounding them.

Lyrically, “Sonic Boom Boy” has a playful, slightly comic-book quality, perfectly matching the band’s colourful visual image. The futuristic title and energetic arrangement create a sense of speed and excitement, while the catchy chorus makes the song instantly memorable. Its combination of retro rock influences and electronic experimentation also reflected the band’s description of their music as “beatbox rock ‘n’ roll”.

“Sonic Boom Boy” remains the song most closely associated with Westworld and is an enjoyable snapshot of the adventurous British pop-rock scene of the late 1980s. Its infectious rhythm, distinctive vocal and unusual fusion of rockabilly and electronic sounds give it a unique character that still makes it stand out today.

It peaked at No. 11 in the UK Singles Chart on 28th February 1987.