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Written by Rebecca Reardon Saturday, 02 June 2007 06:18

Most of the songs are so short ("Who Stabbed Sean Spencer" is only a minute and 21 noisy, head-bobbing seconds long), you'll likely forgive the monotonous vocal range.

I would love to see the Brokedowns live. I'd be front and center, flailing about wildly and yelling the anthemic lyrics at the top of my lungs, "New brains! New brains! New brains for everyone!"

That last line's the title of the raucous debut CD of this four-man punk band from Elgin, Ill. You've got to love that right off the bat. They don't say they're from Chicago, which is only an hour away. They're from Elgin! Yeah, that's right. Rock! That genuine "we are what we are" attitude permeates each fist-pumping song.

Roughly four tracks in, though, the shout-rather-than-sing style grows a tad tiresome. But the aggressive guitar and relentless drums will keep your fingers tapping the steering wheel. Besides, most of the songs are so short ("Who Stabbed Sean Spencer" is only a minute and 21 noisy, head-bobbing seconds long), you'll likely forgive the monotonous vocal range. Take time to read the biting lyrics. Then check to see if the Brokedowns are playing near you soon. You may end the night beer-drenched and peppered with mosh-induced bruises. But it'll be worth it. B+ | Rebecca Reardon

RIYL: Rise Against, Lawrence Arms, Black Flag, Ultraman