With the release of their first album ‘No Name, No Color’, MIDDLE CLASS RUT are set for big things. Perhaps the most striking feature is the depth of sound this duo can produce; there’s such richness to this album that it’s hard to believe there are only two members. It’s multilayered and interesting, giving more than enough to the casual listener or to the intent fan. An album made of some previously released songs from past EPs is remarkably well put together; it’s not at all disjointed and has a common thread running all the way through the release, making the songs seamlessly blend together. Starting with ‘Busy Bein’ Born’, a fantastic opener that’s measured and steady in its insistence. The sound is an epic one, from the high tempo grooves of ‘Alive Or Dead’ to the euphorically chilled out ‘Are You On Your Way’. Middle Class Rut have a distinctive niche while showcasing a range of songs within that spectrum. There’s ‘Lifelong Dayshift’, a fierce and intent barrage on the senses and ‘New Low’ with a funkier sound. It’s a polished album but not overproduced: slick and stylish without being too clean cut. Passionate and rough, the album’s got heart and it’s screamed out. A fantastic first album from a talented band.
JOSIE MARTIN