If you’ve listened to the 2008 self-titled album or seen the band since that release, then you know what you’re going to get from the latest offering from Mike TV. The band may be pretty prolific in switching band members, monikers and the likes, but that patented pop-punk sound just doesn’t change. And let’s be honest, that’s no bad thing.
The ‘Stopgap EP’ is exactly that: a quick digital number to stop the gap between releases, to tide you over until something a little more substantial sees the light of day, as well as a chance to welcome new drummer, Glyn Mellor (see, more band member switcheroos). It features three new tracks and a cover of The Ramones‘ ‘Daytime Dilemma (Dangers of Love)’. Oh, and it’s a free download.
So, in just under 13 minutes we’re treated to sticky syrup coated pop harmonies, hooked choruses capable of catching Moby Dick, comically tongue-in-cheek lyrics, and a buoyancy that’d keep the Pequod afloat. It sounds crisp and clean. It has a waste-no-time tempo. Basically, it’s exactly what the band has been doing for years now. Punktastic described Mike TV as ‘the best pop-punk band in the UK right now’ last time around and there’s nothing to suggest anything else this time.
As for the cover version: it’s bigger, faster, more poppy, sounds better, and is a whole lot more fun than the original. So there you have it: Mike TV, more fun than The Ramones.
Head over to HYPERLINK “http://miketvmusic.bandcamp.com/” http://miketvmusic.bandcamp.com/ and download for free (or a donation if you’re a kind hearted soul).
Alex