Feral Records – 22 Aug 2025
Chicago power duo release debut EP
The Feral Tact story is indeed unique. This was a band that was completely created by a chance meeting between vocalist/guitarist Mikey and drummer Max. Mikey would stand in on vocals for Sludgeworth rehearsals due to Dan Schafer residing in downstate Illinois. Max is the son of Sludgeworth’s drummer Brian. The story goes that Mikey and Max would periodically lock themselves in another room and work on songs. Over time, the two performed a handful of shows throughout the Chicago area. After two months of songwriting, the duo has delivered Wolves as their debut offering.
The lead off track “Bored” is a total college radio rocker. Mikey and Max are in perfect sync as they pulsate driving rhythms throughout. The vocals are very deep and akin to Bob Mould. Subtle guitar leads are properly placed and do not overpower the song. The track boasts a somewhat funky bridge which reminds me of later era Sludgeworth. Feral Tact take on alt-country vibes on “Wolves and Shepards” which follows. The subtle drumming allows the vocals to breathe through the mix. Mikey takes a more monotone approach in delivery. One can be reminded of J. Mascis of Dinosaur Jr. fame on this number. “Sold Souls” picks up the pace in a complete twist. The vocals are in a higher range and the rhythm is a bit more driving. The song also boasts early doom metal vibes first heard in Black Sabbath and Pentagram. “Concoction Man” is a personal standout track upon repeat listening. This one commences in true melancholy fashion which instantly draws you in from the get go. The song progresses nicely to some mid paced buzzsaw guitar riffage. This song has elements of Chicago post punk and Midwest emo. The doom elements creep in again on “What We Learned” which follows next. This song is equally dark and raw. The driving guitar throughout is a complete throwback to the earliest days of proto metal. “Scream Holes” maintains a mid-paced tempo throughout. Mikey plays a steady lead over the underlying rhythm. The final track “Dragged” is another rocker which book ends well with the EP’s opening track. This track screams early SST Records sounds such as the Meat Puppets. The track boasts a memorable chorus which will have you headbanging for days.
Feral Tact have delivered an impressive debut offering with Wolves. At times, one would forget they are listening to a duo as opposed to a full band. It will be interesting to watch the evolution of this band. This EP suggests that the pair are still defining their sound. The collection of songs are a melting pot of post punk, alt rock, emo and even doom metal. Feral Tact will definitely appeal to listeners with a wider musical pallet.
I am mostly known in cyberspace as a vinyl junkie and punk rock bassist! Fair assessment. I am the bassist of the Chicago area power pop / pop punk band SPACE AGE ZEROS.