They must be putting distortion in the water up there in Chicago. How else do you explain the epidemic of crunch punk bands like Mil Mulliganos? This four piece churns out a hearty collection of punkish cuts filled with fat guitar chords and effortless harmonies. While a bit light on variety, the band's strong hooks make for enjoyable listening. Balancing tension and release, Mil Mulliganos keep the excitement high by alternating full, all-out rock 'n' roll with slender bass and drum sections. The result is far more nuanced than your run of the mill bar band.
The band's lyrics do the job, though I'm scratching my noggin over some of them. Take "Back in School" for example:
"I monitor your hallways now, and my clothes I keep them plain
The vidiots are closing in
Cos' my sponge is like a brain
It's all part of being cool when your life is back in school."
Nostalgia? Pent-up teenage angst? Time travel? Stalking? I'm not sure, but it works in these tunes, some of which extend well past the three-minute pop-punk standard. Well crafted and finely executed, Flavor Country Firefighter shows Mil Mulliganos well on their way to honing their signature sound. Check it out and take note of its auspicious start. Here's hoping for a bright future for these Chicago boys.
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