LP review: The Darbs – “She’s a Dungeon Master Now”

Plaza 8 Records – 16 Feb 2024

Wisconsin trio’s sophomore release is a rock solid collection of Midwest punk songs. 

I was a fan of The Darbs’ self-titled debut from 2019. It was a trio of older guys from Sheboygan, Wisconsin making punk rock for its own sake. Still, I approached their follow up, She’s a Dungeon Master Now, with a healthy dose of skepticism.

The Dungeons & Dragons inspired title and cover had me a bit concerned. I grew up in the Dairy State at the height of Satanic Panic in the ‘80s, and never played D&D. (Most of what I do know about it came from watching Stranger Things.) Even though the popular role playing game has moved from nerds’ basements to the mainstream, I was still cynical.

It turns out I had nothing to worry about. Beyond the title and art, it’s really just a dozen new punk songs. As a matter of fact, if anything, this record tightens up the songwriting from the debut. The 12 songs also feel more cohesive as a unit than the sprawling 17 track 2019 release.

The title track starts things off strong. “You Got Me”, “What We Did Not Know”, and “Cheap Thrills” back to back to back might be the record’s best extended run. Side One closer, “Roll Away”, incorporates a bit of acoustic guitar, but doesn’t let it wear out its welcome.

She’s a Dungeon Master (Mistress?) Now might be the rare record where side two outshines the first. It’s six really solid tracks of driving, melodic punk rock comfort food. Songs about growing up and growing older with an undeniable Midwest sensibility. The highlight is the penultimate track, “Must Have Been Crazy”.

This record sat in my “To Review” stack for way too long, but I’m pleased that I was finally able to give it the time it deserves. The Darbs are a good example of the many great punk bands playing their asses off in obscure scenes in flyover states. I’m glad to be able to shine a little light on them.

For vinyl fiends: D&D inspired or not, the black and white cover art is actually really cool. The clear vinyl (it might have a slight green or blue tint) is also very cool. I can’t find any other pressing info, but the overall packaging is also an upgrade from the debut.