Here we are in 2012, and what else can be said about "old-guy-era" NOFX that Dr. Joe Pelone hasn't already? Head honcho Fat Mike is still keeping NOFX a split-personality band, with the silly/serious dynamic maintained on this large-hole (*snicker*) single. Get yer NOFX 45 adapter while supplies last, y'all!

Personally, I had moved on in my musical tastes and left NOFX behind around the start of this century. I was always into silly bands (hell, i still love the Aquabats) but by 2000's Pump Up the Valuum I was tired of their shtick. So I never got War On Errorism though I did review this. That said, like many punk fans now in their 30s, NOFX fills a special spot in my personal punk rock history. I took this opportunity to give them another chance, and in reviewing this 7" single have gone on quite a tear through the NOFX catalogue on Spotify to catch up on what I've missed. Good times. The conclusion of my research reveals that yes, NOFX sound exactly the same in 2012 as when I parted ways with them in 2003. Tight playing, loose lyrics. You know the drill. No political songs to be found here, though I am anxious to see if they take on Romney on the full-length due out in September. A song about his treatment of the family's old dog could provide some chuckles perhaps.

Here, "My Stepdad's a Cop and My Stepmom's a Domme" shows their immature side, "She Didn't Lose Her Baby" shows the serious. "Stepdad" is an excuse for permanently-stunted Mike to throw out witty rhymes like "My stepdad's a cop / And my stepmom's a domme / I found a pair of handcuffs / I don't know whom they belong." Good enough, I suppose, but the only thing that truly impresses me about this track is the key change before the last chorus, taking Fat Mike's already high melody and pushing it further. "She Didn't Lose Her Baby" reminds me of "The Bag" (White Trash, Two Heebs and a Bean) in both lyrical tone and darker sonic palette, a minor-key, double-time rocker complete with the standard ripping Hefe solo.

On their most recent full-lengths (Coaster the most recent), the band have shown a willingness to expand their trademark sound juuuust a pinch, with synths, reggae jams, '80s-style hardcore, what-have-you. While this 7" doesn't allow room for that kinda thing, we can hope that their upcoming album will. This record is only for the most dedicated of NOFX enthusiasts.