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- Photo by Katie Hovland
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- Photo by Katie Hovland
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- Photo by Katie Hovland
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- Photo by Katie Hovland
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- Photo by Katie Hovland
The Menzingers – Some of It Was True
Epitaph – Release Date: 10/13/23
The Menzingers released their seventh studio album last month and in doing so, have retained their signature characteristics, while simultaneously breaking new ground. With much of their previous lyrical content rooted in nostalgia, this record deals more with events taking place in the present. There’s also an increased amount of confidence in the songwriting, which helps the songs to naturally sound more a bit more mature.
Album opener “Hope is a Dangerous Little Thing” places singer/guitarist Greg Barnett’s vocals front and center, and he continues to evolve and improve with each record. In many ways this song is classic Menzingers, infectious and catchy, but an older, wiser version of the band. “There’s No Place in This World for Me” finds them in top form, seamlessly blending punk and heartland rock. There’s even a sing-along outro that evokes hints of Naked Raygun.
“Nobody Stays” is an energetic entry, led by singer/guitarist Tom May, and one that mixes indie and alt-rock influences in a really unique way. Its lyrics talk about how nothing is permanent and the importance of enjoying the moment, and this theme is reinforced throughout the album. “Try” is another song penned by May and it’s steered by a phenomenal guitar lead that conjures memories of their second album, Chamberlain Waits. It features guitar leads that spring at the listener from all angles and sounds like a modern interpretation of their early years.
“Come on Heartache” is an expertly-crafted, midtempo number and likely one of the best songs they’ve written to date. Barnett petitions against having his heart broken again, while the band sounds especially comfortable moving at a slower pace. It’s the sort of song that years from now could likely be looked back on as a major turning point for the band. Other songs that successfully employ new influences include “Ultraviolet,” “Alone in Dublin” and “I Didn’t Miss You (Until You Were Gone).”
Some of It Was True sees The Menzingers growing up, but not in a way that’s necessarily predictable. They continue to push their sound and lyrics further, and do so with purpose. Ultimately, this is a record that not only effectively ties together their previous efforts, but one that positions them for a favorable future.
Beach Rats – Rat Beat
Epitaph – Release Date: 7/29/22
In late July, the all-star cast of punk rock lifers known as Beach Rats released their debut album. The band formed over a mutual love of 80’s punk and hardcore, and to simply have fun while creating music that evokes the spirit of that era. Not only did Beach Rats achieve that goal on Rat Beat, they also succeeded in carving out their own distinctive sound. Opener “Bikes Out” crashes through the speakers at a breakneck pace and the signature vocals of Ari Katz, (Lifetime) are front and center in the mix. Bassist Bryan Kienlen, (Bouncing Souls) also provides several prominent bass leads, which really assist in bringing everything together on this short and direct entry. “Heavy Conversation” features a unique, descending guitar lead in its intro, quickly followed by chords that transition furiously in the verse. The song brims with energy and would likely induce numerous fists in the air at a live show. It also enjoys somewhat of a loose feeling during the breakdown, illustrating that Beach Rats are fittingly more focused on mood than they are perfection.
The title track contains a vocal melody and accompanying chord progression that overlap perfectly, as well as a surplus of frantic guitar solos, courtesy of Brian Baker, (Bad Religion, Minor Threat) and Pete Steinkopf, (Bouncing Souls). The song quiets for a few seconds near the end, seemingly fooling the listener before the band charges back at full volume one last time. Conversely, “Blown to Bits” is more of a mellow track that mixes major and minor chords. It has lots of alternating rhythms that transition unexpectedly, and some underlying hardcore beats, all of which showcase the abilities of drummer Danny Windas.
Rat Beat was primarily written and rehearsed in Baker’s basement, and then recorded by Eric Bennett at Lakehouse Studios in just one day. It’s this sort of approach, both instinctive and not overthought, that really defines the character of these songs. There’s also an abundance of youthful drive and an undeniable sense of honesty on this record. It’s traits like this that allow Beach Rats to not only live up to the hype, but ultimately surpass expectations.
Fake Names – Self-titled
Epitaph – Release Date: 5/08/20
Last month, Fake Names released their debut full-length via Epitaph. The band’s lineup features Dennis Lyxzén, (Refused, International Noise Conspiracy) Brian Baker, (Bad Religion, Minor Threat) Johnny Temple, (Girls Against Boys) and Michael Hampton, (S.O.A.). While many will be quick to label them a supergroup, what’s different about Fake Names is that its members share a natural chemistry and their songwriting doesn’t seem forced. One of the first entries that stands out is “Being Them,” as it combines old school punk with contemporary influences. It also features a sprawling chorus and lyrics that champion free thought and oppose conforming to society’s standards. “Brick” begins with a fiery riff and an aggressive verse before a hyper-melodic chorus emerges unexpectedly. Its lyrics are rather timely in that they talk of revolution, (“You will fall like never before / Statues crumble, backs against the wall / You will pay for what you’ve done / Gonna destroy what you’ve become”). Despite clocking in at under two minutes, it’s easily one of the album’s most memorable songs.
“First Everlasting” spotlights the range and command of Lyxzén’s voice and includes a sing-a-long chorus that’s reinforced with multiple backing vocals. “This Is Nothing” embraces more of a post-punk style, with a plodding verse and a distorted bass lead. Its words provide a critique of consumerism and denounce the shallow aspects of today’s culture. The record ends on “Lost Cause,” an overtly catchy song with a driving beat and prominent melodic guitar leads. It concludes the album on a fitting note, with a positive message of not giving up and holding true to one’s beliefs.
Without question, this is a concise and solid debut. Its overall theme of questioning longstanding institutions and societal norms is extremely appropriate right now. Here’s to hoping there’s more to come from Fake Names and that this record is not just a one-off experiment.
The Lawrence Arms @ Metro, 6/07/14
This Saturday, The Lawrence Arms are playing Metro with The Copyrights, Sam Russo and Dog & Wolf. The show starts at 6:00 PM, is all-ages and tickets can be purchased here. The Lawrence Arms are touring in support of their latest album and Epitaph debut, Metropole, while The Copyrights just announced that they’ll be releasing a new 7” on Fat Wreck Chords this summer called No Knocks. Also, Sam Russo released a split EP on Red Scare last month with TLA singer/bassist Brendan Kelly and it can be ordered here. Check out the above photos of The Lawrence Arms that were taken by JIC’s own Katie Hovland. They’re from the band’s practice space and were shot just before their recent show at the Concord Music Hall.
The Lawrence Arms
Photo by Katie Hovland
The Lawrence Arms recently released their first album in nearly eight years, entitled Metropole. It marks their debut for Epitaph Records and maintains the standard that they’ve set with previous full-lengths in that it’s considerably different from its predecessor. Longtime fans can rest assured though, as this record delivers an abundance of memorable moments, along with meticulous songwriting from start to finish. We spoke with singer/bassist Brendan Kelly and talked about how the album came together, as well as what inspired some of its central themes. We also discussed how it was recorded, the band’s upcoming tour and more. Continue Reading…
Frank Turner
Photo by Katie Hovland
Frank Turner is an English singer/songwriter whose solo career began in 2005. Since then he’s toured the world extensively, releasing three EPs and three full-lengths along the way. His new album is due out this June on Epitaph, entitled England Keep My Bones. We met with Frank before his recent show at Beat Kitchen to discuss the upcoming record, touring, songwriting inspirations and more. Turner is equally sincere and humble, and these characteristics translate seamlessly to his songs. Despite his success, he remains modest and focused simply on pursuing a lifelong career as a musician. England Keep My Bones will indeed allow him to do just that, as well as continue to find new listeners and perform in unfamiliar places around the globe. Continue Reading…
Bad Religion Interview, 2003
Bad Religion is one of punk rock’s longest-running and most revered acts. Over the years, they’ve sold millions of albums and influenced countless bands. By combining political and intelligent lyrics with three-part vocal harmonies, they created a signature sound that’s one of the most recognizable in all of punk. Several months ago, Bad Religion came through Chicago for a show at The Vic and we talked with bassist Jay Bentley. We conversed about the band’s latest album, The Process of Belief, their return to Epitaph and much more.
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