SWINGIN’ UTTERS—Dean Flowers, Bottles, Bluegrass, and Bones
***
(Fat Wreck Chords)
The Swingin’ Utters have been one of my favorite bands for a while. That is until this album. With the departure of guitarist Max Huber something has happened to the Utters. It’s not really that bad, but man does it lack the fire they once had. Johnny’s still one of the best punk singers out there so I’m sure I’ll still listen to this album from time to time.
Similar Sound: bad sounding Swingin’ Utters
SINGAPORE SLING — The Curse Of Singapore Sling
*****
(Stinky Records)
I really, really like this. Really. Coming to you all the way from Iceland, Singapore Sling bring you a super good debut album. This is raw, dark, furious and even strange. It’s an original display of musical talent that’ll have you attentively listening each and every time. Hot damn.
Similar sounds: The Stooges meet Swervedriver
THE SCARIES — Souvenir
*****
(Law Of Inertia Records)
Ok, I’ll be the first to admit that I’m friends with The Scaries and that it might seem bias that I’m doing a five star review of them. But I have to face facts; this is a f**king great album. When it comes to poppy punk The Scaries kick just about as much ass as can be kicked. It’s really catchy and musically incredible. They’ve been around for a while and play music just because they love it and it shows in the new album. Go to a live show as well; it’s a great time.
Similar sounds: The Descendents mixed with Andrew W. K.’s high kicks.
THE MARLBORO CHORUS — Good Luck
***
(Future Appletree)
This is a catchy little nugget for your ears get a hold of. Not too hard and not too soft. Yup, even the three bears would like this. Some of the songs are a bit too dull for my taste but the more upbeat ones are toe-tapping fun. Those are good times.
Similar Sounds: um…rock stuff type music.
GOOD RIDDANCE — Bound By Ties Of Blood And Affection
****
(Fat Wreck Chords)
What can I really say about Good Riddance? If you’re into punk then you know who they are. This album is pretty damn kick ass. It’s fierce, unforgettable, nothing short of an amazing album. But what else would you expect from them? It’s amazing that Chuck plays bass as hard as he does because I know for a fact he slaps faces like a girl. But that’s cool.
Similar sounds: Consumed, Face To Face
CONSUMED — Pistols At Dawn
****
(BYO Records)
I’ve always been a big fan of Consumed. It’s straight-forward punk with an extra punch. This an album full of powerful, melodic songs that are non-stop from beginning to end. These guys do punk right
Similar sounds: Face to Face, Good Riddance
