The Methadones - Not Economically Viable

The Methadones are one of those bands where you just always know what to expect. Like their pop-punk brethen Screeching Weasel, Squirtgun, and the Riverdales, the Methadones never do anything especially spectacular, but rarely will they let their fans down. Always putting out something pleasing and enjoyable is what this band aims to do, and the Methadones constantly hit their target. Apparently, Not Economically Viable is loosely based on the film Falling Down, which I can't say I've seen, but it can't hurt to throw out that little nugget of knowledge. Those of you who've seen the movie can probably pick up on the similarities, but to me, this record is just a solid punk rock record, leaning towards the melodic side as well as any in the game, next to the Descendents, of course. But since I'm supposed to review the music, I'll make an attempt. There's not a lot detail that I can throw your way; the Methadones are masters at crafting catchy, unrelenting punk rock. Nothing original, nothing exceptional, and not profound in the least, but very enjoyable, at worst. With Dan Schafer (aka Dan Vapid) of Screeching Weasel at the helm, and fellow Weasel Mass Giorgini signing on as producer, it's not a surprise that the Methadones are at the top of today's pop-punk game. The Starting Line? Yellowcard? Who needs them? If you're over 18 you probably don't like those bands anyway, but if you are, and you want to keep some sort of credibility as a punk rock fan, throw away the Ataris albums and give this one a chance. [www.methadones.com]