Slugger – S/T

Try And Stop Me Records/LSM Vinyl

 

Straight from the City of Roses comes Slugger, an all new Californian outfit who debuted last summer with their self-titled mini-album for LSM Vinyl and Try And Stop Me Records. Recently I – accidentally – acquired two copies of this slab of wax and I’m glad I did! So under the motto “better late than never” - or even better, “always late, always great” - here’s my review on this beast of a record!

 

Now those who checked out my yearlists of 2022 already know that this 10” is one of my favorite releases of last year, and for good reasons! Completely self-recorded by drummer/vocalist Tommy (Criminal Wave, The Choice*) and guitarist Clay (D-FY, The Choice*) in between (or during, who’s counting) lockdowns, this record is an explosive outburst of pure aggro and has been taped raw and violently – aka perfectly – by the two friends! The result is an album that is off the fucking wall, a real powerhouse from start to finish and a fantastic debut to say the least!

 

Cranking out pure grit, Slugger somewhat reminds me of a mix between Rixe, Sweet Fuck All and The Royal Hounds NYC. The sound is massive, in your face and rip roaring to boot, with powerful sing-alongs and surprisingly catchy hooks. Live these songs – which are “Skinhead”, “How Much More Can We Take?”, “What Future?”, “Chopping Block”, “I’m Not A Sucker” and “Me And You” - will undoubtedly cause a riot, so you know you’re in for a treat! Love it!

 

10” vinyl seems like a dying format sometimes, but not as long LSM Vinyl and Try And Stop Me Records have a say. Because the two labels released two fairly brilliant 10” records in 2022 and Slugger’s debut is one of them! Highly recommended!

 

*Not the Californian Oi! band The Choice of the mid-90’s.