The Brains: Drunk Not Dead

Punk rock band the Brains gets things off to a quick start on its new album; the quick and speedy tempos are an interesting way to lure a new listener in, but the real draw is songs like “Take What I Want (Souvenir of Monte Cristo)” that have a galloping, swinging feel to them. On songs like “Six Rounds”, it’s hard not be impressed by the musicianship presented by the band members, who are clearly firing on all cylinders. However, from then on, the record takes a steep nose-dive with generic punk rock like “Oh Murder!” and “High on Speed”, and bland rockabilly like “Premonitions”. The Brains are having problems finding an identity but for the most part, the band doesn’t stand out in any way, shape or form. One listen to this record and you want to go listen to something cool and different like Kepone or even Brainiac. In closing, stay away at all costs.