Not too long ago we told you the Muslims changed their name to the Soft Pack. That’s true enough and was likely a good move because now folks can actually concentrate on the music, but it doesn’t change the San Diego quartet’s BTW status. In fact, proving themselves quite literally a Band To Watch, the guys stopped by the Decomposed studios to offer a stripped-down take on their spare and somehow cuddly Strokes-y, Heartbreakers/Voidoids-inspired garage punk.
It’s interesting hearing vocalist Matt Lamkin deliver those laid-back, playfully nihilistic lines (“I’ve got news for you / Yes, I’ve got news for you / I don’t owe anything to you”) over acoustic guitars and upright bass. He’s even more liike a preppy Iggy Pop than usual. When we initially wrote about the Soft Pack, we mentioned their Velvet Underground-style detachment: At Decomposed, they add VU-style standup drums to that insularity. We’d also brought up the Replacements. You get less of that here sonically, but it’s hard to deny the early Westerberg/T. Stinson bedhead. The band is always spare, but these takes on “Call It A Day” and “Extinction” along with a cover of Tijuana Panthers’ “Redheaded Girl” add an especial concision. Unplugged these post punk hooks contain a certain raw power, if you’ll excuse the pun. Who needs amps?
Watch the full session now at stereogum.com/decomposed.
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they totally suck. the only reason anyone cared was because of their name.
They are not very good. I feel like the only reason they were mentioned was because of the name and the only reason they haven’t left is because of the new name.
Saw them on Friday at the Echoplex and was not impressed. i was underimpressed. there wasn’t anything interesting about them
Amazing band! Great live band! Music doesn’t have to be interesting. It should be catchy, with good rhythm and at least an attempt at harmony. Check these guys out. They’re awesome!
Hey bah- YOU suck. These guys kick it real horrorshow.