Dune Rats
If It Sucks, Turn It Up – Ratbag Records/BMG
Ever just put a record on and know that you’re going to have a good time? That’s exactly what Dune Rats’ latest, ‘If It Sucks, Turn It Up’, is from the outset of the opening title track: a brash, snot-nosed blast of anarchic punk rock that makes you want to tell your current authoritative figures to do one. Throughout the band’s fifth full-length there is a youthful verve that harks back to those early Blink-182 or Green Day records, with plenty of humour, self-awareness and bouncing riffs. Try fight the urge to dance and flail your arms about during the new wave-influenced “Solar Eyes”, or the raucous “Rich Kid Rehab” – you can’t, or you’re a statue. It is not all uptempo and bonkers, with the aforementioned “Solar Eyes” offering a little sonic variety, whilst the fantastically-titled “Beers, Bongs & Bullshit” sounds like a prime surf rock ode to friendship. The title here presents somewhat of a paradox: it does not suck, but does that mean it needs to be turned down? Hopefully Dune Rates will forgive ignoring the opener’s instructions and cranking this up.
Review by Lee Carter