"Life & Times" is the first new Maximum Penalty release in about seven years (thanks to Reaper Records), but though it comes some 20+ years after the band's formation, there's absolutely no reason to fear some lackluster reunion. Despite having seen these guys live a handful of times in the mid-90's timeframe, I was never a true Maximum Penalty fan until a few years ago when their 1989 demo and the "East Side Story" EP were re-released together on one CD. The band's sound had taken on a somewhat lighter and more rocked out tone on their post-"East Side Story" releases that—while fairly solid in retrospect—still can't match the impact of their earliest work. And that's what makes "Life & Times" so impressive, because over a decade later a band that has such an extensive (not to mention underrated and overlooked) history is back in action with 15 tracks that completely recapture the harder edge of their original vision. This is easily their most diverse (and probably best sounding) effort to date, and while there's a clear metallic hardcore base, Maximum Penalty's simply incapable of sounding the least bit like generic NYHC—maintaining a unique blend of crunchy rhythms, melodic post-hardcore characteristics, and some of that catchy, rockin' punch they've always played with. Hell, there are even a few riffs that have a thrashy crossover kinda vibe! And of course you've got the soulful feeling of vocalist Jim Williams' immediately recognizable, one-of-a-kind delivery. I don't know if there's any luck or right place/right time involved or if it's just Maximum Penalty's true sincerity and inventiveness, but I wish more bands had the ability to release such killer albums at this point in their lifespans...
Maximum Penalty "Truth & Consequence"
Crazily enough, the band's lineup (which still features two original members and their longest-standing drummer) has gotten even better since the recording of the album, with Rey Fonseca (formerly of two of the greatest bands ever, Elements DEC and Agents of Man) coming in on second guitar and Jonathan Buske (formerly of The Promise, Another Victim, Terror, and shitloads more) now handling bass duties. I'm sure it'll be awhile, but I'd be psyched as hell to see 'em get that current lineup in the studio with more new material!
Get It
Reaper Records (CD)
Reaper Records (LP)
Interpunk (CD/LP)
RevHQ (CD/LP)
Comments
Outstanding record. One of the best releases I’ve heard this year.
10.27.2009 | By Jeremiah/Dead City
Really good record. Everyone seems to forget “Uncle Sham” from the early 2000’s. It was called MP even though it only had Jimmy from the OG-lineup. I love everything by this band. (Uncle Sham not so much… Only couple of OK songs on that one). This a breath of fresh air and one of the best hardcore cd’s that the last decade has produced.
10.27.2009 | By JL
Wow, yeah, I don’t think I even knew “Uncle Sham” existed. Crazy. Post updated as a result. Thanks!
10.27.2009 | By Andrew Aversionline
The band doesn’t even mention it anymore in their discography. It was basically two men project with Jim Williams and Rich McLoughlin (of Killing Time).
10.27.2009 | By JL
I’m digging this a lot!!! It’s somehow “heavy” and “catchy” at the same time (if this make any sense). Have to check the back catalog.
@Andrew: btw have you ever wrote about Elements DEC? Don’t find it on your blog…
10.27.2009 | By Carlos
never mind I found something :)
10.27.2009 | By Carlos
This is my first exposure to MP, can’t decide if those are the worst vocals I’ve ever heard or the most amazing. One-of-a-kind indeed. I’m becoming a bigger fan with each listen.
10.28.2009 | By Chris
it’s THE album of 2009. And one of the BEST returns / reunions in HC history.
It’s hard, true to its NY HC roots, original, melodic when it needs be, and with good lyrics. And an close-to-perfection production.
And the new line-up indeed can make it even stronger. VEry much underrated band - has always been that unfortunately. If MP would get the hype Madball or terror would get, they would be king of the HC castle.
10.28.2009 | By brooklyn
Love this shit, way better than all those new hardcore bands basin’ their new album on a few classics, reaper on a roll
11.1.2009 | By Tim
i haven’t even heard this yet and can still guarantee it fucking rules!
11.2.2009 | By j fucking w
This album is good and heavier than their earlier stuff,
but i dont think its something special…
...my favorite albums are the Demo/East Side Story EP and Superlife.
11.2.2009 | By BB