From the tongue-in-cheek opener “So American”, Mesa Lanes deliver another slice of modern punk where the resistance maintains a sense of humor. Satire has never sounded so fun! And as Nate Shaw, one of the many vocalists on this record, sings on “Action” – “I’m getting old and I need some action!”. Well, Red Wine and Yellow Pills delivers plenty of action so hang on tight.
Nicky Sjobeck remains the captain of the Mesa Lane ship but Audrey Sjobeck proves a capable co-pilot when she takes the mic on the Fastball-via-The Goods cover “Nothin'”. Duke Seino is also back on “Of All Things” which is one of the many instantly catchy tracks on this impressive album. California punk seems to be in good hands as long as Mesa Lanes sticks around.
The band’s politics have a take-no-prisoners approach and “Mr. President” is equal parts anger and resignation about a fight that never ends. The melodic finesse of “Bobby Pin” and “Cynthia” still kick serious ass but the songs also get the feet moving. This is Southern California punk done without any bells or whistles. It’s like a friend who doesn’t let you down, like, fucking ever. And Hostage Records holds up their end with more insanely beautiful and clean vinyl pressings. Mesa Lanes have returned with more of what we wanted and nothing we didn’t. Recommendation: play very loud.