If you believe the press, the new EP frm Finnoguns Wake was inspired by Oasis and Husker Du. And there just might be some truth to that. Certainly fans of singer Shogun's earlier work in Royal Headache will find something that resonates -- loudly -- in the grooves of Stay Young, this duo's new EP on What's Your Rupture.
Finn Berzin and Shogun drive for the heart of the sun in the churning opener "Blue Skies", a real highlight here, while "So Nice" sounds like Britpop as played by punks. Elsewhere, closer "Strawberry Avalanche" recalled for this listener the best numbers from Ride spin-off Hurricane #1.
This is nimble, smart stuff. Anyone who was a fan of Royal Headache is going to want to rock out with this EP. It's a bit Sugar-y to these ears, and catchy-and-punchy like Dag Nasty too. A neat blend of punk and pop, Stay Young is highly recommended.
Stay Young by Finnoguns Wake is out now via What's Your Rupture.
[Photo: Mia Meadows]