‘Rules For Making Up Words’ is an interesting album title which says a lot about Ex Friends, who formed in 2011 in Philadelphia. It’s a reminder of immaturity and a childish tendency to literally make up words, which is not to say that the bands first album is a trivial outing – it’s the opposite case here as they’ve released a quick-fire album which evokes strong feelings of nostalgia and touches on the many disappointments of growing up.
‘Dirty Ben Franklin’ kicks off the record, and its satirical, cynical tone is perfect for a punk album; the chorus of “Dirty Ben Franklin, see what you’ve done” is downright infectious. ‘Western Civilization’ also touches on some sort of decline in the West, as NOFX and Propagandhi have done, amongst many others. It’s not new, but it certainly sounds it, with some very polished production which brings out the gritty lead vocals, and some solid backup as well. The guitar work shines on tracks such as ‘Going Dark’, ‘Rainy Season’ and the aforementioned ‘Western Civilization’, managing to be lively but not ostentatious. Catchy choruses are scattered all over as well, with ‘Misplaced Affections’ being one of the songs which puts people who live on the East Coast of the USA in an enviable position, with Ex Friends touring there right now. Yet, the shiny production of this album becomes slightly tiresome in places – the gritty vocals never become anything more than that and Ex Friends seem to be being held back by this polish.
‘Rules For Making Up Words’ is best summed up as a rapid journey through fourteen tracks which covers everything from childhood memories to the decline of America. The beginning of the album is so solid, and it all threatens to descend into chaos; unfortunately, ‘Rules For Making Up Words’ remains a tame affair throughout. Yet, it’s dotted with instantly enjoyable choruses and so many great layers of musical talent that Ex Friend’s first full length album is hard not to recommend.
SAMARTH KANAL