The Smith Street Band

Wipe That Shit​-​Eating Grin Off Your Punchable Face [7-inch] (2015)

samps22

Impromptu releases in the wake of unsettling world events aren't something the punk community, or greater music community, look forward to. Sadly, it seems like songs are released and unscheduled shows are played all too often in the wake of tragic and oppressive events.

In recent years, the frequency is too familiar. Fans are given shows, compilations, and releases to soak up in hopes of influencing opinion, raising money, or raising awareness about a particular issue. In the case of TSSB's latest surprise release, the circumstances are no less unfortunate, but the quality is immense.

Not lacking in lyrical content, "Wipe That Shit-Eating Grin Off Your Punchable Face" offers unique song structure and its namesake delivers the best hook we have heard so far in 2015. Sonically, the Melbourne quartet are continuing down the trail they have blazed for themselves over the last 4 years with another very solid effort.

Their unexpected release kicks off 2015 with an image-rich intro over clean guitars that lends itself very well to the aforementioned, ass-kicking (or face-punching) middle section. High-energy vocals reminiscent of Mark Paffi from Bars of Gold/Bear vs. Shark envelop throughout, following the lead of Chris Cowburn's dynamic drumming.

After becoming a mainstay on reviewers' 2013 and 2014 "Best of" lists, and touring relentlessly, TSSB are making more than a political statement against Australia's foreign refugees immigration policy. That is, they are here to stay whether you agree with them or not. Proceeds from the release will go organizations focused on assistance for refugees seeking asylum in Australia.