The Strange Times – Eat Your Leaders EP

Eat Your Leaders is the new EP from eclectic NYC punk band The Strange Times and represents their first new music since last years’ Firing single and I Love Cops EP.  The challenge I had with their previous output was it seemed like the band were trying a bit too hard to show off their eclectic side, often to the detriment of the songs. I am immensely pleased to say that this is not the case with the four tracks on Eat Your Leaders. Each of the songs has its own unique sound, from the relentless pace and energy of Shake to the politico punk of Living Wage, which despite it’s serious tone is foot tappingly catchy with an excellent shout-a-long chorus. The band are at their best on Price on Your Life, a commentary on the class system and its effect on the arts and despite a pretty cheesy chorus (make art, get high) the vocal delivery, excellent guitar work and melody are reminiscent of Public Image Ltd at their best. The title track is also a fast paced tongue in cheek attack on the upper class featuring machine gun guitar riffs, desperate vocals balanced against a cool string melody which meanders throughout the track.

Overall I was bloody impressed with Eat Your Leaders, a big leap forward from their previous work which I sincerely hope garners them the recognition this deserves.