New Myths (EP)

Album Review

Sounding just a shade too old and a bit too well-educated for pop-punk, Portland's Crack City Rockers meld their purposefully snarky lyrics with jagged, high-impact power pop (complete with keyboards, harmonies, and occasional saxophone lines) on this seven-cut EP. While Eric S. Gregory's lyrics and vocal delivery aim for a cynical and streetwise undertow, the energetic pulse of the performances lift up the music (especially drummer Curt Schulz and lead guitarist Dennis Mitchell), making this an engaging and powerful listen almost in spite of itself. And while it's obvious that Gregory has some serious matters on his mind, there's enough wit around the edges of "Glory of the Sun" and "Truth Drug" to confirm his sense of humor is still highly functional. There's half a good album on New Myths, so hopefully Crack City Rockers won't stop after six songs and a monkey yell next time out.