Ellington

One of my earliest memories in Jackson was stumbling into Martin's Lounge, where I found this really loud, fast punk/garange band called The Overnight Lows. They were composed of Jackson's Marsh and Daphne Nabors, a husband-wife duo that just so happened to rock pretty hard. Their ripsaw guitars and thunderous, rock-god beats filled that tiny space with a wall of sound that could deafen those with lesser hearts.

Many moons later, this band is finally making the national splash it deserves, signing with Memphis' Goner Records and releasing their first full-length, City of Rotten Eyes. Blending bits of influence from 70's NYC garage, amped up punk, a little whimsy of The Vasolines, and the audacity of Goner alumni Jay Reatard, the band waves their party flag high.

Standout tracks include the driving title track, Shut Up Looking at Me, Lipstick Burn, and Picked Apart (Left to Rot.) It's a very quick listen, with no song lasting over three minutes, and most substantially less. With such a longer playtime, the lack of variety in tone and pace might wear on you. But this album is in and out so quickly that you might very well listen to it twice before you realize it. Punk has always been a dish best served in small portions, and this album will likely make you want seconds.

Their LP release gig is Saturday, March 6th @ Ole Tavern on George Street. City of Rotten Eyes is available now on iTunes and eMusic