Has it been almost ten years? The Smut Peddlers have been firing on all cylinders lately – gigging constantly, recording on a regular schedule, and it shows why they’re emerging as one of the best, most reliable OC punk bands in existence. (Smogtown, RIP.) Gish Stiffness’s bass is the understated foundation, Julia’s drumming is both more frantic, inventive, and precise, and Sean’s guitar is right on par with Roger Ramjet’s (whom he replaced). Couple this with their last full-length, Ism, John Ransom, lyricist and singer, has emerged with a twisted, yet clear voice as the underbelly of OrangeCounty. He has an insatiable fascination with pharmaceuticals that are prescribed to overcome addiction and their effects on the body; specific parts to Harley Davidsons; big skateparks with bowls as the alms that will cure most of society’s ills; and expresses an understandable beef with “Escalade drivers wanting reparations.” This is a spot-on extension to their already considerable catalog, and it’s near the top.
–todd (Dead Beat)