Review / 200 Words Or Less
Fake Problems / Ninja Gun
Split

Sabot Productions (2009) — Michael

Fake Problems / Ninja Gun – Split cover artwork
Fake Problems / Ninja Gun – Split — Sabot Productions, 2009

This split 7" from Sabot teams up two punk sensations for one exclusive track each. Fake Problems offer up "The Manliest Man of All Men," which is very much in tune with their preceding full-length, It's Great to be Alive. The band builds on their quirky punk sound with a hint of bluesy rock and roll and indie rock flavoring; think The Rolling Stones meets Against Me! and Modest Mouse.

Ninja Gun offers "Time and a Half," which showcases a more pop-driven sound as compared to Fake Problems. The song boasts a slight Americana tinge and the vocals are much more smooth and poppy, recalling Billy Joe Armstrong at points. I wasn't as into this song; it just seemed a bit too cutesy for my tastes.

If you're a fan of PBR, The Fest, beards, and flannel shirts, then you should definitely take the time to pick up this 7" - that's if you don't already have it.

6.5 / 10 — Michael • December 10, 2009

Fake Problems / Ninja Gun – Split cover artwork
Fake Problems / Ninja Gun – Split — Sabot Productions, 2009

Recently-posted album reviews

Psycho Beets

Horrendum
Trash Wax, White Riot Records (2026)

ALBUM HIGHLIGHTS – “Mam w sobie diabła”, “Zombie”, “Listopadowa noc”, “Porque te vas” Fancy some Polish psychobilly punk? Well, you’re in luck. This is for anyone who takes their classic rock ’n’ roll swing with a heavy dose of horror and dark Western twang, blending rockabilly elements with Slavic folk and chaotic yet mysterious post punk -– all as the … Read more

Manicdotes

Eight Lives Down
Independent (2026)

The chemicals are rushing right out of the gate on this one. You start with a cigarette and dive straight into Diphenhydramine (Benadryl, to the lay person) to calm your nerves from that nicotine rush. This album starts off with a raucous acoustic punk number that will leave you craving more. So, it’s a good thing it’s only the first … Read more

Maruja

Pain to Power
Music For Nations (2025)

ALBUM HIGHLIGHTS – “Look Down on Us”, “Born to Die”, “Break the Tension”, “Trenches” Ahead of their 100 Club appearance this September, Maruja’s latest release, 2025’s debut album Pain to Power – following a slew of six EPs, reveals awe-inspiring experimental rock clashed with muddy yet always melodious free jazz. Eclectic would be putting it mildly. In amongst all that, … Read more