The Queers

In the trashy tradition of the Ramones and Mono Men comes this fun split release from Rotterdam's Stardumb imprint, featuring the Queers and Italian leather jacket revivalists Manges blasting through a brace of covers and originals. The Queers are first with a hyper take on the bubblegum classic "Chewy Chewy"; they also find a way to ring a few drops of vitality from well-used surf rock like "Wipeout" and "Ft. Lauderdale." Best might be the Helen Love cover "Girl About Town," for which the Queers show off their veterans' command of harmony and dynamics. For their part, Manges turn in five overdriven originals, augmented by a run through Cheap Trick's "Surrender." Manges aren't much for complicated chord changes -- their sound is accented Screeching Weasel, pure and simple. But it's snotty, well-played, and sharper than a bomber jacket lapel, as standout cuts like "Morphine" and "Barrage of Hate" illustrate. ~ Johnny Loftus, All Music Guide