Yuppies lead singer Boogs Begley insists that this album needs to be listened to “on a loud stereo system.” I followed his instructions and figured out why: the fast and frenetic punk demands that the listener pay close attention. The songs are clearly painstakingly crafted not only individually but also as an album. “Across the Prairies” is a slow, chanted introduction before the listener is informed, “Alright, alright we’re going for a ride/whether you like it or not/grab your things collect your thoughts/we’re going for a ride alright alright” on “A Ride.” The album really gets going after this line with an abrupt howl and screeching guitar thud. The rest of the album flows seamlessly together with noisy guitars, driving bass, in-your-face lyrics, and brilliant pacing.
These Omaha punks (Jack “Boogs” Begley, Kevin Donahue, Noah Sterba, and Jeff Sedrel) cut their teeth with countless shows in and around their hometown since 2007. Their DIY punk roots show through not only in their disaffected, raw sound, but also their well-practiced songs. “What’s That,” “Easy Nights,” and “Getting Out” have been in the Yuppies’ repertoire for a few years now, but this performance is easily their best. Released by Dull Tools, Andrew Savage of Parquet Courts’ label, and featured streaming in Pitchfork Advance, Yuppies s/t is their finest work to date and they are finally getting noticed for it.
This album tells the story of the worst vacation ever, a night that must have been fun because it can’t be remembered, and worms crawling in your brain. The listener has no choice but to hop in the Yuppies’ car and cruise the hellish Midwestern night away.
Yuppies @ the Hexagon in Minneapolis Saturday, October 12th.