Mustard Plug

Evildoers Beware (Hopeless)
by Grant Thayer

One of the definitive 3rd wave bands, Mustard Plug returns with swift guitar licks, strong but not overpowering horns, zesty bass lines, and solid drumming. Several songs about old girlfriends, growing apart from friends, or just growing up. “Box” is inspired by touring in a van. “Suburban Homesick Blues” confronts the return to one’s hometown and feeling lost. An old girlfriend can take the hint that they will “Never Be” a couple again. Nothing jumps out and grabs me to start skanking on the floor, but then again, ska is always about the live show, and MP is quite impressive in that regard.