Brassneck Records – 25 Nov 2022
An effortless union
This split opens fire with Scotland’s The Kimberly Steaks “Empty Vessel,” the track oozes Lookout! level Green Day, but with an upgraded precision, engineering, and confidence. “Look The Other Way” follows, which laces more sneered Scottish vocal delivery to classic 90’s punk rock, and paves the way for No Matter‘s “Ad Nauseam.”
The Northern Ireland four-piece is perhaps even tighter than the Bad Chemistry LP released earlier this year, showcasing dual vocals from guitarist Dan and bassist Cat on top of drummer Jamie’s expert level sixteenth hats. “Jenna’s Gonna Snap” is dominated by Cat’s delivery, once again in the same ranges of pop sensibility and “nah-nah-nah’s” of what Screeching Weasel or Blink-182‘s original line-up were attempting. Killer fucking song.
In hopeful split tradition, the bands each covered one another, and The Kimberly Steaks dug way back to 2014’s Drop The Act in a fantastic rendition of No Matter’s “Sick.” The cover is no-nonsense, a smidge faster than the original, and a total home run. No Matter dipped into the exact same year, covering The Kimberly Steaks To Live And Die In West Central Scotland tune “Wrong Exit,” and the production, harmonies, and energy may have defeated the 2014 version.
While perhaps a quite obvious pairing, No Matter and The Kimberly Steaks have a tremendous symbiosis that provides a fun listen and desire for more material from both of the groups. Much recommend.
Host of “Who’s Zoomin’ Who?,” punk rock dad, OILER from the future, oh and my biggest fears are cold poo on my face when I’m sleeping, and spiders that walk on water. Jacket enthusiast, astrological sign.
