Cover:
5 BK Value Menus out of 10
It's a painting of a creepy marionette in a top hat. It looks cool but
is kind of dark and moody for such a generally upbeat collection of tunes.
Looks more like artwork for a Godsmack or Tool CD or something, which
is cool if you like dark and moody but I like things that make me happy.
Dammit.
Booklet: 7
Piss-tainted Wine Bottles out of 10
This 12-page booklet is designed really well with lots to look at; background
graphics are creative and it's altogether very colorful. All the lyrics
and individual band photos to boot. However, nobody thought to thank
Metal Sludge in the special thanks list, so the rating's not nearly
as high as it would've been. Maybe they'll remember next time.
Songs: 8
Mean Old Roadies out of 10
If you liked the first Mars Electric
album, you'll dig this one as well. It's not quite as polished, but
still retains the modern rock/punk-pop vibe that was so prevalent on
the first CD. All the players are good and Jacob's got kind of a distinct
voice and singing style, but the formula works well. If you've never
heard of these guys before, well, what kind of a Sludgeaholic are you?
It's fronted by Jacob Bunton, who joined the ranks of the 20 Questions
alumni back in the Fall of 2000 and whose interview led to the infamous
feud between himself and the Mean Old Roadie from Alice Cooper's crew.
In fact, the debate was so heated that it could only be resolved via
a Metal Sludge poll. Alright, I dig the tune "Disco King,"
which is the first single from this album, the somewhat heavier "Dancing
in the Clouds," and the track "Baby's Got A Brand New Life,"
which is something of a ballad but I dig it anyway. I know I hate ballads,
but I like this one. Fuck off.
Comments: This
CD is just as good as a lot of stuff being played on modern rock radio
and stands up to contemporaries such as Sum 41, Good Charlotte, etc.
Some of these songs are rockers, some are more mellow but they all exhibit
Jacob's knack for writing catchy hooks and layered rock songs. These
guys definitely deserve more success than they've had. Buy this CD so
poor Jacob can afford to eat something other than selections from the
Burger King value menu!
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