2020 was a rough year -- so rough that I somehow stumbled across two different EPs from last year that end with songs about removing people’s faces. With that noted, I’m certainly curious what abstract and gory trends 2021 will bring…
Anyway, Midwest Duress features Raging Nathans (Ohio) and Reaganomics (Illinois). Raging Nathans play modern pop-punk with a strong ‘90s influence. What the hell does that mean? Think skatepunk guitar tones with something of a sad/longing vibe: Midwestern clouds floating over those sunny SoCal skies. Reaganomics are more of a bizzarro-world Ramones with the punk song structures you know and expect, but lyrics about being dead and tearing off faces.
Raging Nathans already released a full-length earlier in the year. The new, post-pandemic songs fit the band’s established style well. With bright guitar sounds contrasted with sullen vocals tones, the songs are energetic but reflective. “Worry About Yourself” is probably the standout, followed by “Fuck You” which turns the table.
This is my first introduction to the Reaganomics, despite their being a band for quite some time now. They play traditional but extra loud punk with memorable choruses, a hint of gruffness, and lyrics that have their tongue so firmly in cheek that it’s hard to make out the exact metaphors -- just that it’s fun and super catchy. It kind of reminds me, sonically, of a less dumb Nobodies. “Tear Off Your Face” takes the cake on this 7”, with a big whoa-oh moment to put that final layer of icing on a ridiculous and fun song.
I came to this EP as a fan of one of the two bands and curious about the other. In this case, I think my new discovery -- Reaganomics – delivers the more memorable batch of songs. I’d call that a successful split: new tunes from a band I know and a positive introduction of somebody new.
