TRACK REVIEW: FORMALLY LETHARGIC – “ALL OUTTA BUBBLEGUM”
Artwork by Nadia Penkofflidbeck
GENRE | Politically-fueled Punk
LABEL | Denizen Records
RELEASE DATE | January 20, 2017
VERDICT | Ready to Punch a Nazi
In the current social climate, it’s hard to avoid getting political. There seems to be no safety net of neutrality– you’re either for or against the current administration. Topsfield-based label Denizen Records went public with their stance in late January with the release of Punk Against Trump, a twenty-two track compilation of political punk rock.
One of standout tracks on the comp is “All Outta Bubblegum” by Cincinnati natives Formally Lethargic. The opening line, “You’re falling for a fascist,” lets listeners know off the bat that, in true punk fashion, no punches will be held. Gritty guitar riffs kick the beat into high gear as vocalist Alex Kah unapologetically croons, “I guess it’s time to kick some fucking ass,” over the chorus. The track ends with Kah admonishing the listener as he repeatedly screams, “Watch freedom burn.”
While Formally Lethargic has one of the hardest-hitting songs on Punk Against Trump, the entire compilation is a salt and vinegar mix of sharp songs providing their voices to the resistance. Notable mentions go to The Dwarves’ quirk-filled tune “Trailer Trash,” and Insect Death’s seven second hardcore track “Oh, the Total Bullshit Spewing From Your Mouth.”
Punk Against Trump is available exclusively on Bandcamp for $4. All proceeds benefit Planned Parenthood.
Chala Tshitundu
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