The Blackout Argument

Munich Angst (2006)

Jordan Rogowski

I've been fortunate enough to do a lot of traveling in my life so far, and in those travels I've seen a lot of memorable cities. Few, though, were as memorable and flat-out enjoyable as Munich, Germany. There's so much for Munich to be proud of -- gorgeous architecture, delicious food, friendly residents, and just a clean, prosperous, and friendly feeling throughout.

Certainly not much to be angsty about.

Somehow, some way, the five gentleman that comprise the Blackout Argument have attained quite the unhappy disposition, and Munich Angst serves as their call to, well, whatever it is they're calling to.

I can't say I predict many people will listen, because the whole sing-scream-bad lyrics formula that the five-piece uses is something that people in this country have been trying to get rid of for years, and the tired formula present on the EP isn't given any tune-ups or face-lifts to save what is, for lack of a better way to articulate it, completely and totally forgettable.

The first track, "Regret in Stereo" pretty much tells you all you'll need to know without having to listen. The title is completely indicative of the kind of music held within -- extremely repetitive riffing lays the base for the scratchily-screamed vocals and off-key singing that fade in and out without any real rhyme or reason. There's no real semblance of structure, because the guitar, bass and drums that are supposed to be the foundation offer nothing distinguishable. The 45-second mark of the song sounds just like the 1:45-second mark, and so on. This is true of the album as a whole; the following track, "So Much You and Me" can barely be told apart from the track that preceded it.

If you're looking for anything redeeming here, you're looking in the wrong place altogether.