Mudhoney

The Seattle fuzz kings’ first disc in four years shows the band in vicious form. Musically and lyrically, the group have their fangs bared on much of this material. Under a Billion Suns frequently shifts gears from Sabbath-inspired dirges such as "Hard-on for War” to full-tilt rockers, including "Empty Shells.” On a number of songs, vocalist Mark Arm satirises social and political failings with the same snide tone that grounded much of the group’s early work. The band also make good use of a horn section to enhance some of their tunes with fuller arrangements. Despite their now infrequent recording schedule, Mudhoney prove here they’re still capable of delivering rock that aims to break car windows and spray paint the band’s name on garage doors.