Swansea boy Casey Maunder presents his third album, Smash Down Jericho, which comes not long after Get Out And Push, which gained solid traction in his South Wales homeland.
Casey Maunder – Smash Down Jericho
Release Date: 20 March 2026
Words: Paul Hutchings
Casey Maunder has been a staple on the live circuit since stepping out on his own in 2021. Support slots to Cats In Space, amongst others, as well as shows across the South Wales region, have established him and his band as a reliable and enjoyable live act, whilst his music is soaked in a hard rock fusion with melody that runs for days.
Smash Down Jericho covers topics including social commentary about drug abuse and the spiral that children can find themselves in (Ellie), the social acceptance of tattoos (first single Paint) and the homage to those rock stars no longer with us (Now That The Titans Have Fallen).
There is a range of styles, all underpinned by rich melody and catchy hooks that have filled the previous two albums. Maunder’s vocal delivery is soulful with a rocky rasp that fits the high-tempo tracks that litter Smash Down Jericho.
The Foolish And The Dead, for example, pops along with a driving pace that is irresistible, whilst Under One Sky has a bluesy lead break and a radio-friendly sensibility that, with a bit of push from the major players, would no doubt make Casey a much bigger name.
Casey’s ability to write the big hook is one of the major weapons in his arsenal, and he manages that throughout the album. CJ is an emotive semi-ballad, and The Way You Make My World Go Round goes full tilt into the heart on sleeve territory, for me, echoing the best of the ’80s Hair Metal bands in its feel and style.
Smash Down Jericho is another demonstration of the versatility of the man as a songwriter and musician. It is from the heart, honest, and a very good listen from start to finish.
Never afraid to tackle topics that may be uncomfortable, this is an album for those who love melodic rock at its purest. He may be unsigned, but there is plenty of talent on display here. Album three? It is probably his best yet.
Casey Maunder releases Smash Down Jericho on 20 March 2026. For more details, visit linktr.ee/CaseyMaunder.
