Reviews

Mark Dober

Radon More of Their Lies LP

RADON is one of those beloved bands that was never very prolific, never quite went away, yet pops up every now and then to play a show and release some music. They were, at least in part, the foundation of the Gainesville scene, which eventually led to bands like HOT WATER MUSIC and AGAINST ME! This is their second LP since reuniting in 2005, and they haven’t lost a step. So many such bands settle into adult contemporary alternative rock. Not Radon, no siree. It may be a little more polished than the classic 28 LP (released over 20 years ago), but it’s still got lots of energy and will have you tapping your toes. Ripping pop punk from beginning to end.

Porcupine What You’ve Heard Isn’t Real 12″

PORCUPINE have been kicking around the upper Midwest since 2006, and now feature one Greg Norton. Yes, he of the handlebar mustache. This six-song EP is straightforward, mid-tempo alternative rock, with a bit of that ’90s Brit-pop feel. The opening track has a nice, catchy chorus, and overall it’s pleasant enough, while not being particularly memorable. They do throw in one HÜSKER DÜ cover (“Standing by the Sea”), perhaps as a tribute to the late, great Grant Hart.