When a TGEFM staffer just doesn't have the time to write up a full review for an EP or LP, they can do a quick one for the Drive-by Reviews feature. Think of it like a Cliff's Notes for reviews– You'll get the gist of it without all of the verbiage.
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Miracleworker – Break
Self -released – 20 Oct 2023
This has an early 1970's punk/ garage rock feel. Kind of slightly more mellow MC5 meets a less wild The Stooges, with the last acoustic song having more a rock tone.
Why you want it: For a band that says they had minimal practicing, this doesn't sound like it. It has a raw sound, but with clean recording.
Why you don't: May be too mellow and not punk enough.
Top Tracks: “Break”, “You Belong to No One”
Flying Raccoon Suit – Moonflower
Bad Time Records – 3 Nov 2023
This album really deserved a full-length review, as it could be the ska album of the year. It is jam packed full of the musical spectrum with every song questioning what the ska genre sound is. It is masterfully complex, musically diverse, catchy at times, in your face vocals at others, non-stop start to finish. One minute you're skankin, the next your head banging, then you don't know what to do so you just make up your own dance as you just have to keep moving.
Why you want it: If you like ska, ska-punk, ska-core, hyperska, swing, jazz, heavy metal, indie pop, and want these styles all interwoven magically on one record, or just looking for something truly unique and amazing.
Why you don't: Maybe it's too musically vast and some of the lyrics are about some mature topics, but really, you'll still want this, it's fucking great!
Top Tracks: “Swan Song”, “Eat The World”, “Long In The Tooth”, “Sunflower”
Geoff Palmer – “Lonely Christmas Call b/w Cocktails and Candy Canes”
Stardumb Records – 12 November 2023
It's that time of year we get some new Holiday music. These songs are fun and entertaining, Ramones-ish core style.
Why you want it: If you are looking to add some not to serious new music to your X-Mas playlist.
Why you don't: There is nothing ground breaking in these tracks, may be a little simple for some.
Mad Caddies – “Palm Trees and Pines”
Sbam Records / 55 Rose Records – 24 November 2023
Ska and reggae punk band the Mad Caddies are finishing up their new album which is set to be released in early 2024. The first single to come off the album “Palm Trees and Pines” is a classic feel-good reggae tune.
Why you want it: It's a fun and easy to listen to song, great for hanging outside with friends.
Why you don't: Has modern reggae feel that might not be your thing.
Likes fine beer and cheap cheese. He has been a DJ, sound mixer for commercials and television, and currently designs motorcycle parts. He also has a habit of creating pastiche style cover songs and changing the chorus to incorporate “Jeff” or “Sorley.” (sigh… it's true – Jeff)
https://www.instagram.com/rizchex_tgefm