Label: Self released

Date: August 5th, 2020

Ever wandered what would the Ramones sound like if they haven’t (mostly) died, but instead soaked in all the current punk rock tendencies? Neither have I, but luckily there’s a way to find out. Brazilian quartet, Mars Addict, presented their debut album and it sounds just like 21st century Ramones.

Well, I might be exaggerating a bit. The truth is that Mars Addict relies heavily on US punk rock. Actually, they are basing their tracks on the above mentioned legends. However, what comes out of “Lamecoaster” is a melodic version of punk rock. Bubblegum punk, if you will… I will not, thank you. Think not of the early Ramones. Mars Addict is more of a mid-career Ramones. Only sweetened a bit. There is a whole lot of basic rock ‘n’ roll in here. The Beatles, for example. Sounds intriguing? Well, it should. I’m quite impressed with what the Brazilians achieved on their debut. I wouldn’t exactly call them original, but they do show a level of thought not often found. Especially with a debutant. For instance, check out “Snowboarding with my Dealer” and “Chainsaw Hedgemaze Mayhem” right after. The former being a Christmassy tune, sweet enough so that you need an insulin shot. The latter is a pure bred OC punk worship. And guess what? They still belong together. The fact that Mars Addict was able to present two sides of their creativity and still retain coherence is the key to “Lamecoaster”.

Thinking of the Ramones, I cannot help but associate the Brazilians to Green Day too. Maybe even a bit of that weird side of the Offspring. Being a fan of Serbian legends Doghouse, I can relate them as well. Topics covered on “Lamecoaster” also coincide with Mars Addict’s idols. We get a lot of nostalgia for the youth, school, love, holidays… On the other hand, you can hear all about the incoming zombie attack. Misfits, anyone? Yeah, sure, throw them in too.

There’s always something unexpected going on with Mars Addict. They do not offer a safe haven where you can relax and enjoy whatever punk has in store for you. The Brazilians demand your full attention and should you give it to their debut album, you will be rewarded with a record that is a definite keeper.