Manatee

Oakland's mysterious Manatee are back, following up their Indecision single with this sharp blast of punk energy. Recorded in the same marathon session as the aforementioned single, these two tunes couldn't be any more different. Where that last single flirted with power-pop and late Replacements melodic rock inflected with shoegaze sonics, this single is straight up punk rock. Featuring two concise songs that each happen to clock in at 2:13, this limited-edition flexi wear's it's heart on its sleeve (literally) with art that pays homage to The Dils classic Dangerhouse single.

"Mr Super" is the poppier of the pair, bringing to mind mid-80s SoCal pop-punk in the same way that label-mates Terry Malts do. Powered along by the pummeling rhythm section of Nik (bass) and Chris (drums), "Mr Super" is either about our president or a super hero, only singer Keith knows for sure. "Chased By Anderson Cooper" is a nightmare brought to life, the frantic hardcore rush mirroring the protagonist's panic. Both songs are packed with guitar crunch galore, often exploding into shards of uncontrolled feedback. Not too bad for a bunch of old men.