Paper + Plastic – Release Date: 10/12/10

Having called it a day in 2004, The Gamits laid dormant for nearly five years. Then an unexpected phone call came from Japan with the opportunity to do a reunion tour. They readily accepted and the shows were so successful that the band decided to write and record a new album, the end result christened Parts. Grittier than their previous output, Parts is very much a pop punk album, but not in a gimmicky or unadventurous sort of way. “Falling Apart” opens the record at a frenzied pace and really is the most interesting a punk band has made four chords sound in a long time. It presents a unique rhythm, earnest lyrics and a nifty bass solo at about the midway point. Without a doubt, it’s one of the more superb songs that The Gamits have ever penned. “No One Cares So Why Should I” emphasizes increasingly detailed guitar work, as well as complex tempo and key changes. At over three minutes in length, the song never loses focus or gets boring. It’s got some pretty sweet backing vocals too. “Delusional” critiques a certain aspect of today’s independent music scene, but also looks in the mirror and questions The Gamits’ own intentions. Further highlights include the dissonant tale of self-destruction found on “Love Suicidal” and a guest vocal appearance by Lagwagon’s Joey Cape during “Amplifier”. Despite a lengthy hiatus, The Gamits don’t sound as though they’ve missed a beat and have crafted a remarkably cohesive album. Supporters of thoughtful, mature and well-executed pop punk will likely be enthralled with this record.