"The April O'Neil Tapes," the debut of Allentown PA's Rough on Rats, is a fun bit of mid-tempo punk rock. I've seen these guys several times the last couple years, and while this EP doesn't quite capture the energy of their live show, it's a good start, and an indicator of better things to come.
The first track, "Beating Rocks on Rocks" has got a pretty catchy chorus; a solid opener, leading into the faster, more abrasive "Sons of Nothing." This one builds progressively in tempo and intensity, and the melodic vocals are traded for a hoarse shout that works well with the heavier guitars.
"Shame" pulls the tempo back, for a sing-along style punk song, with lots of "whoa's". This is probably the weakest track on the EP, and my mind wanders a bit in the last minute or so, but it isn't a bad song.
The CD finishes with "Vestige of Decay," a tune that starts with a cool, slow intro, that leads into a fast verse. Some nice drum work on this song, and I like the shouted-sung vocals.
These guys put on a good show, and are worth seeing, if you can. I look forward to hearing a full length, hopefully in the near future.
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