While there is punk power here, BLATANT DISSENT doesn’t rely on it for overall impact. Their sound is almost understated, based more on melodic tunes, up-front lyrics, and clean production. Complexities at times remind me of fellow Chicagoans NAKED RAYGUN (Jeff Pezzati does production too).
Two defunct Chicago-area bands share the honors on this split EP. DEAD FINK produces raw but hook-filled punkers of which “Home in a Grave” is particularly outstanding; HAPPY TOONS alternate between a careening thrash assault and some weird metal-tinged structures, but they’re crude enough to get away with it. A surprisingly strong release from two relatively unknown outfits.
Poppy teen punk. Big in melody, simple construction, decent production and guitar sound. Midwest garage meets BUZZCOCKS. Jumpy.
POLITICAL JUSTICE? delves into a medium-paced punk style with highly distinctive lyrics—and songwriting that unfortunately lacks any sense of uniqueness or catchiness. I admired the committed point of view of this band, but I hope the musical aspects of this outfit catch up with them on their next release.
A very polished very pop “progressive” post-punk band. Definitely college radio material with little bite.
