Hey everyone! This week I will be reviewing Interpretum (Tape One) by The Crux, a self-described folk punk band from Santa Rosa, California. Before I get started, let me say that I would not exactly describe The Crux as a folk punk band. After listening to 2 of their full length albums (Be Merry and Ratcatcher) and the EP that I'm currently reviewing I would probably place them more in the folk category. There are some punk influences, but there are also some jazz influences, and about a half dozen other styles thrown in for good measure. Then again when I hear folk punk my mind immediately goes to bands like Flogging Molly, Dropkick Murphys, Larry and His Flask, etc. The Crux is like none of these bands, but by the same token they're not really like any of the obviously folk bands you could think of either. I'm not sure which circles they run in, but I think Steampunks could really enjoy this band. True, their lyrics aren't stereotypically steampunk, but their sound is definitely interesting. More over, while the vocalist probably won't make it on anyone's list of the greatest singers of all time (and to be honest, he doesn't need to be a great vocalist given the style) they are incredibly competent storytellers and musicians. Every song on Interpretum (Tape One) tells a very engaging story, and the music fits perfectly. This is a very theatrical band to say the least. Badge On is the first song on the EP and while it has a slow start up it tells a story that keeps you listening. Mad Lolly sounds like something Boogie from Nightmare Before Christmas would sing. It's definitely a cool sounding song. Old January Joe probably has the most folk punk feel of any of their songs on this EP, but even it has more of a psychobilly feel than folk punk. The Beat is definitely the odd man out on this EP. It's much softer, and less manic than the others. It's a nice counterbalance to Man of Earth and Old January Joe.
Overall, I feel like Interpretum (Tape One), and The Crux in general, could be a bit polarizing. If you are a fan of folk acts like Mumford and Sons, The Lumineers, Nickel Creek, The Pouges, The Dubliners, or folk punk acts like those I mentioned before, you may be in for a rude awakening if you expect The Crux to be like those bands. On the other hand, if you're looking for something interesting, well-played, and well-written you should definitely check this EP out. Check out their social media: facebook.com/The.Crux.Music twitter.com/thecruxmusic youtube.com/user/TheCruxMusic or go to their website: http://thecruxmusic.com/ thecruxmusic.bandcamp.com
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