Ah, MxPx, true purveyors of pop-punk in its finest form. Back with an EP self-produced in their home town of Bremerton, and released on Fat Wreck Chords, they're back to blast the critics of 2000's more poppy 'The Ever Passing Moment.'
And, as usual, MxPx pull of it off. 'The Ever Passing Moment' was never a bad album, it just possesed some distinctly average moments, especially considering the sheer quality of the band's previous two albums. Discouraged at the punk fraternity yelling 'sell out' in their direction, Mike, Yuri and Tom are back with a nine track EP which takes them back to 'Let It Happen' and 'Life In General'-era MxPx.
Opener 'Lonesome Town' is the closest thing to anything on their last record, but without the over-polished production. 'Letting Go' is a blast from the not-so-distant past, with fast, furious drumming from Yuri, and Mike's distinct vocals, which are still amongst the best in the business.
'Party II (Time To Go)' is a bit wishy-washy, but 'Time Will Tell' rocks like a bastard, and more reminiscent of 'Pokinatcha' style MxPx. 'The Opposite' starts off all keyboardy, but rest assured, MxPx haven't turned emo. Back to their trademark catchy choruses, this is possibly the most instant song on the record.
'Talk Of The Town' regains the fast pace, backed up with a number of guest backing vocals, including those of ex-guitarist Andy Husted. 'The Struggle' also starts off with a very old-fashioned punk sound, before the vocals kick in and suddenly its trademark MxPx again.
Sure, it's nothing new, but well worth checking out. MxPx fans will lap this up, and anybody who criticised the band for their last record (shame on you) will probably hang their head as the band respond with a damn fine EP.
Paul Savage
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