Unfortunately Amazon MP3 does not have Middle Class Rut's latest EP available for purchase. This is too bad. I left them a comment on MySpace about how awful it is that they do not have DRM-free copies of their album for purchase, but I never received any response.

I saw Middle Class Rut (how many times in a row can I preface my blurb with "I saw this band blah blah?") open for Burning Brides a couple months ago and they were very impressive. I've seen bands crank a lot of sound out of a single guitar and drums successfully (White Stripes) and sometimes with much genius and aplomb (Local H), but Zack Lopez shreds the fuck out of his guitar and summons massive walls of swirling noise, with a wide stance and veiny arms. I ran home and bought their EP on iTunes instead of from them in person because I'm a giant idiot, only to discover that it was full of the same awesome songs I heard them play live.

So Long is by far my favorite (although 25 Years comes close), and one of my faves of 2008. I can relate to the situation described in the song, from both sides, and I think the intensity of the music is perfectly paired with the lyrics. Definitely guys to watch. Also, man, does that guy sound a lot like a young Perry Ferrell or what?