THE MUFFS Vinyl & CDs

Review: In 1993, as grunge dominated the airwaves, the Muffs emerged as a refreshing alternative. Formed by Kim Shattuck and Melanie Vammen, both formerly of the Pandoras, along with Ronnie Barnett and Criss Crass, the Muffs brought a lively energy that contrasted sharply with the era's grunge monotony. Shattuck's vocals, oscillating between sweetness and a snarling, almost wolf-like howl, became the band's defining feature. Their debut album, produced by Rob Cavallo - later known for Green Day's success - delivered a crisp, beefy sound perfect for their pop-punk style. From the opening chords of 'Lucky Guy,' it was evident that Cavallo had nailed the production, emphasising the right amount of treble in the guitars. Drawing inspiration from the Ramones but infusing it with their unique twist, the Muffs crafted an array of catchy, acerbic songs. Shattuck's biting lyrics and dynamic voice paired seamlessly with the pop-punk melodies. Tracks like 'Big Mouth' and the joint vocal piece 'Stupid Jerk' highlighted their knack for direct, memorable music. The album also featured diverse influences, from the Beatles-esque 'Another Day' to the garage-tinged 'I Need You.' The reissue of this album includes a bonus disc of demos and unreleased tracks, making it a special treat for fans. Thirty years on, the Muffs' debut remains vibrant and fun.