EP REVIEW: Dirty Deeds – M.U.T.T.
Punk music is in a great place right now; you could argue that it’s the best it’s ever been. The quality of punk that is coming through the ranks at the moment is exceptional and one band that is constantly releasing banger after banger is San Francisco outfit M.U.T.T.. After 2022’s offering Bad To The Bone, they’re back once again with their incendiary brand of punk, this time in the form of an EP under the name of Dirty Deeds, and it’s one hell of a ride.
In true M.U.T.T. style, the band launch into Dirty Deeds at 100mph with the opening track Damaged, kicking off proceedings with the sound of thundering drums and ringing guitars before going in on an all out assault on the senses as they dive into a cacophony of rough around the edges pure punk. Channelling the likes of MISFITS and STIFF LITTLE FINGERS, it’s the perfect opener. It’s made for small sweaty rooms and makes you instantly imagine the chaos that will ensue when these new songs are played live. The snarling lyrics compliment the fast-paced nature of the EP, with the distorted effect on them giving off a wonderfully chaotic vibe. It’s a wonderful way to start Dirty Deeds as it’s almost impossible to stay still whilst listening.
SF Is Killing Me is up next, featuring themes of becoming disenfranchised with your hometown, a common theme in many punk songs over the years. Throughout the track, a swirling riff takes command, leaving very little moments for pause as your ears take an absolute battering throughout. However, it never outstays its welcome as you’re able to bask in true punk rock glory. At times you’ll think that Stefan Babcock of PUP is singing on the record too, with both vocalists sounding eerily similar.
Whilst it doesn’t feel like it, third track Downtown Boy is the slowest track on the record. Again, those classic riffs are there, but at some points in the song they take a back seat to make way for fun guitar solos which bring in a welcome change in sound, however brief that may be. Whilst the pummelling sound is also prevalent in this particular tune, it is a nice change of pace which gives you a second to catch your breath. However, the moment of respite is short lived; immediately upping the ante is Breaking The Law, which is hands down the heaviest song on Dirty Deeds. The fast-paced guitar launches back into what feels like an homage to Breed by NIRVANA as it even has a similar distorted sound.
Rounding out the EP is the title track. A six-minute epic that allows M.U.T.T to show off, it may seem self indulgent but it absolutely isn’t. It’s got the band at their absolute best and ready to take on the world. Throughout the song, they’re all up in your face which is about as punk as you can get. It’s another wonderful addition to the M.U.T.T. back catalogue. The only downside to it being six minutes long is that you think they maybe could have squeezed one more tune onto the EP as once it’s over, you’re desperate for more. Luckily they’ve built up an impressive discography over the last few years that you can spool through.
Dirty Deeds is one of the most enjoyable listens you’ll have all year. It’s short, compact and pure punk rock. Above all, it is just complete and utter fun, and the only downside is that it’s over way too soon. As soon as it’s over, you’ll want to play it again and again. The thought of seeing these songs live is a mouth-watering prospect, although that’s probably more realistic for US-based readers than those living in the UK, but hey, we can all dream. You’ll be left with your ears ringing but it’s one hell of a ride.
Rating: 9/10
Dirty Deeds is set for release on February 23rd via Quiet Panic.
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