Mustard Plug - Masterpieces 1991-2002

The fact that Mustard Plug, of all bands, has a greatest hits compilation results in me feeling ancient at 21. Covering 11 years of third wave ska from these nerds from Michigan, Masterpieces initially comes off as unnecessary. I say this because, well, who actually listens to Mustard Plug? Not that I don’t have a place in my heart for them, but from my experience, Mustard Plug and most of their peers remain skulking in our adolescence. Where at one time this style of music was fairly popular, and Mustard Plug was one of the more enjoyable bands of the third wave revival, they pushed no boundaries and haven’t left a legacy. Then again, maybe there are enough nerds out there who have been yearning for a best of album from these guys since their last album in 2002. It’s certainly not a business strategy to capitalize on a band whose popularity peaked probably eight years ago. So, maybe it’s merely a final tribute to a band unafraid to be silly and carefree while writing incredibly catchy, funny songs. “Mr. Smiley,” “Lolita,” “Yesterday,” “Everything Girl,” they’re all here. While I can’t see myself ever listening to Mustard Plug again, save for nostalgia’s sake, Masterpieces fulfills its purpose and should do the same for all of you who unabashedly admit to listening to them in the days of wet dreams, pimples, heartbreak, and all the other things that come with being a teenager. [www.mustardplug.com]