Stormbringer Webzine

Metal Reviews


"Apathy And Exhaustion"

The Lawrence Arms

 

"Apathy And Exhaustion," an aptly titled debut for the band knowing where they're coming from on the road and all the little nuances that go with the grind.

For the listener, I would quite call it "apathy," there's a lot of listening incentive here; "Exhaustion," yeah, after the final ringing of "Abracadaver" you're all but spent.

Right off you hear something different about these guys-they've got two different singers
with two different styles to add a sort of "Paul" and "Gene" vocal character that in spite of often being squeezed by the rhythmic wind sheer of the tunes, adds another level of mood and emotion.

The music's sudden, loud, and usually up tempo, similar to the many Pop-modeled Punk
rawking freewheelers that makes for a perfect fit for Fat's existing roster of chartbusters-though listeners may feel the urge to loosen their belts a bit trying to keep up.

The titles are a hoot and if I could understand either of the vocalists in spite of the smooth and sloppy tradeoff distinction maybe I could make better sense of something named "Navigating The Windward Passage," or "Boatless Booze Cruise Part I" but even considering the lyrical contents, I can't make the effort-apathy?

Nah, just can't read the damned words!

Even so they make for great hum along accompaniment on your next trip to the padded
room.

Compare 'em to Blink 182 and you're not far off.

Compare 'em to their soon to be tour mates Less Than Jake or Strung Out and you're
getting a little closer.

We'll throw in fellow melody-making miscreants Gameface and Movielife for good measure. The fact is they sound a little like everybody and totally unto themselves-must be the vocal sharing cuz the amperage sure don't change much.

Pretty damned polished for a group that got their boots only in '99. Added features include plenty of severed limbs, Windy city ramblings and stupid faces. Cool vibe and a nice hook. Call 'em "Larry" for short.

Released by Fat Wreck Chords
Website: http://www.fatwreck.com

Review by Vinnie Apicella [va85@columbia.edu]
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METAL STORM PRODUCTIONS
Vinnie Apicella

P.O. Box 20252
New York, NY 10025
212-865-2848 / c:845-729-9977