Reviewed by Ian Webber

From the outset, the Chicago folk punk band's eccentric marriage of bagpipes, mandolin and punk rock weave their way through 13 high energy tracks that bring to mind the air of a spit and sawdust rock venue. Over the driving rhythms and unmistakably Celtic feel, Tobin Bawinkel growls like a tuneful Shane MacGowen as he chews his way through a collection of songs that would be a perfect backdrop for a New Year's celebration. The Greek bouzouki style guitar on "Hourglass" is effective, balancing the crunching guitars that soon join it. There are also quieter moments such as "Shiny Eyes" which once again returns to the Celtic undertones that accompany most tracks. One constant throughout the album, however, is the musical fury generated in tracks like "Hot Head". Flatfoot 56 do not try to hide behind an overproduced commercial sound, but present an honest, authentic hardcore feel. Fans of the Pogues, cow punk and The Electrics will enjoy this uncompromising offering that captures the adrenaline-pumping atmosphere of a hard-gigging band.

The opinions expressed in this article are not necessarily those held by Cross Rhythms. Any expressed views were accurate at the time of publishing but may or may not reflect the views of the individuals concerned at a later date.

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