Once again the king of procrastination got to review an album! And once again I took forever to get it done. Sorry, ladies!
River City Rebels, hailing from Lebanon, New Hampshire, started life around 1998-99 by frontman, Dan O’Day, as a “high school” ska band. That version evolved into a street rock/punk band after hearing the Dropkick Murphys. (which in my opinion, can be heard in this EP).
After a hiatus that began around 2014, O’Day started up the band again with fresh meat backing him up. We have been blessed with four glorious tracks from Pop Culture Baby, a high energy EP waving the flag signaling, “WE’RE BACK BABY!” The title track brings a punchy and almost poppy sizzle with some good ole’ raging guitar.
Let those shallow people be warned, you don’t fuck with “Rock a Cross.” Its another short, but powerful title. O’Day expressing his feelings about organized religion.
“Unless You’re White” is a tune pointing out all the hatred that has become ever so rampant.
Closing out this EP is “Abuse Myself.” A fitting title as its about substance abuse, the harm it causes to the person, and everyone else around them.
While the album is short, it’s definitely a banger! The power behind the vocals and the instruments cannot be denied. I found myself replaying it over and over on my travels to and from work. I’d highly suggest that you grab yourself a copy and get to listening. If the opportunity presents itself – go see them live!
10 out 12 Pabts Blue Ribbons!!
Richard hails from a mini farm in Fredericksburg VA, where he raises small feathered velociraptors in preparation for the coming collapse of society. He enjoys all beers, except garbage pumpkin, and listens to an unhealthy amount of thrash metal, punk, and industrial.