Review / 200 Words Or Less
Fake Problems / Ninja Gun
Split

Sabot Productions (2009) Michael

Fake Problems / Ninja Gun – Split cover artwork
Fake Problems / Ninja Gun – Split — Sabot Productions, 2009

This split 7" from Sabot teams up two punk sensations for one exclusive track each. Fake Problems offer up "The Manliest Man of All Men," which is very much in tune with their preceding full-length, It's Great to be Alive. The band builds on their quirky punk sound with a hint of bluesy rock and roll and indie rock flavoring; think The Rolling Stones meets Against Me! and Modest Mouse.

Ninja Gun offers "Time and a Half," which showcases a more pop-driven sound as compared to Fake Problems. The song boasts a slight Americana tinge and the vocals are much more smooth and poppy, recalling Billy Joe Armstrong at points. I wasn't as into this song; it just seemed a bit too cutesy for my tastes.

If you're a fan of PBR, The Fest, beards, and flannel shirts, then you should definitely take the time to pick up this 7" - that's if you don't already have it.

6.5 / 10Michael • December 10, 2009

Fake Problems / Ninja Gun – Split cover artwork
Fake Problems / Ninja Gun – Split — Sabot Productions, 2009

Recently-posted album reviews

Miller Lowlifes

Pinch Hitters
ADD Records (2025)

The debut album from Florida punk band Miller Lowlifes features a vintage baseball theme, best enjoyed with a can of cheap domestic beer in hand. The metaphor fits, as Pinch Hitters focuses on the American dream -- and where it stands in 2025. The vintage educational TV audio clips add to this past-meets-present theme. It's an album that's equally about … Read more

Art Brut

Sorry, That It Doesn't Sound Like It's Planned! Battling Satan, 2009 - 2020
Edsel Records (2025)

I’ve never reviewed a box set before but Art Brut released my favourite sprechgesang anti-art-punk album of the early aughts so I figured I’d give it a go. 2005’s Bang Bang Rock & Roll placed Art Brut among the “Art Wave” scene but was more post-punk revival than “Indie Sleaze”. Argos has cited Jonathan Richman and Axl Rose as his … Read more

The Slow Death

No Light To See
Don’t Sing Records (2025)

Few bands have as fitting a name as The Slow Death. They play forlorn, self-deprecating punk that’s heavily influenced by lonesome country. The music itself is more driving and punchy, but many of the lyrics would fit just well in a somber old-timey country ballad. It’s forceful music that punches inward instead of at The Man. The first song is … Read more