Lagwagon
So the first band to sign to Fat Wreck is still on the go after 20 years in the game. They’re a bit older and a bit wiser of course but judging by their latest EP, the aptly titled ‘I Think My Older Brother Used To Listen To Lagwagon’ (which brilliantly pokes fun at their own longevity) they’re still the band that we know and love. So Cal melodic punk rockers with a great sense of humour.
You can tell that Lagwagon still love the writing and recording process, when they can fit it in of course. What with two of their members also in Me First and the Gimme Gimme’s and a hectic touring schedule, it’s a wonder they get a chance to do anything else. So it’s nice to get something new every now and again, it shows they’re still enjoying it.
The 7 tracks on the EP pretty much sum up Lagwagon to a tee. It’s bursting with short, punchy bursts of melodic So Cal punk rock. ‘B- Side’ kicks off the EP with a 30 second intro of pounding guitar riffery before the old Cape vocals kick in with lyrics about life, love and general goings on in the world of Joey Cape. Track 6 ‘Live It Down’ is the most gentle on the EP, it’s got a great little groove to it and Track 7 ‘Mission Unaccomplished’ is probably my favourite, it’s just a great catchy pop song, something that Lagwagon have always done well.
On the whole I think Lagwagon have definitely matured, their sound has developed and their technical ability is miles ahead of their early days but really the same old vibe is still there. This EP proves just how much Lagwagon are still enjoying being the humorous skater punks they were 20 years ago.
Give it a go, for old times sake, it’s gonna change the world you know. ..