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North Lincoln

Truth Is A Menace (2004)
No Idea Records

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Contributed by: IanTownsend
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Published on March 25th 2005

Turth Is A Menace is a diary of disillusionment and the confusion caused by society. Truth... is North Lincoln at their best; melodic, gritty, beer-induced punk rock with insightful and compelling lyrics. Those of you already familiar with the band may recognize some of the songs on Truth..., but I assure you that, despite the inclusion of some older songs, this record seems fresh and invigorating. The recording quality complements both the band's sound and ethics, thanks to the recording talents of Rob McGregor (Against Me!, Grabass Charlestons, Army of Ponch).

What really sets North Lincoln apart is their aproach to music. Their songs are characterized by unconventional instrumentation and playing. Brian Beckwith's bass lines sound original and complex, Kevin Nunn's guitar parts sound both fresh and classic at the same time, and drummer John Massel's style is original and nearly mind-blowing. Massel, who is self-taught on the kit, is one of the best drummers i have ever heard in my life (and i've heard a lot). Their material draws on the sound of bands like Samiam, Jawbreaker, Fifteen and the Smiths, adding their own touch to make a sound bordering on cliché sound new again.

The album itself is a collection of songs spanning the past few years of North Lincoln's existence. Some are new songs, some are fan favorites, but rest assured that they all fuckin' rock! An interesting inclusion is NL's reworking of the obscure Smiths song, "Jeane," featuring guest vocals by Samantha Jones of Bitchin'/Rumbleseat. Other standouts include "Apology," "Who's Counting Anyway," "Four Walls Don't Make A Home," "Saint Rouge Red" (featuring Replay Dave from Grabass) and the closer "A Message Lost In A Sing-A-Long" (with Ryan Murphy of True North trading lyrics with Nunn).

Truth Is A Menace is a beer-filled, singalong instant classic!

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mike_litt69 (March 16, 2007)

really fucking good!!!

Anonymous (April 7, 2006)

great band!

Anonymous (November 9, 2005)

So, you shouldn't review your friend's band, huh?

I've known Massel and Beckwith since Junior High, and I'm still able to give an honest opinion. While 'Menace' is a stepping stone for the band, I still feel the tracks recorded with Tyler Watkins are much better, and I've felt this way since the day I heard the album.

Don't get me wrong here, I own three different pressings of this album (mostly because I'm a HUGE record nerd - and hey, these guys are my friends) and I play it regularly at every gathering I host at my place. But still, this record is lacking. In order to explain, I really have to get in depth...

:NL is a live band. If you've seen them, then you know. Their songwriting and style are so beer-soaked, it just can't be glossed over. Your can of PBR needs to be held over your head while you listen, and face it, that's not always possible at home. Check out their EP on Salinas Records. In fact, go to the Salinas website and read the review on the EP. The review encapsules the EP and the EP is North Lincoln.

Really, what I'm saying is, track down the old shit first. These recordings are the true North Lincoln sound. It's who they are and where they came from; and it's fantastic. If you want to get into this band, and believe me - you will, make 'Truth is a Menace' your second or third purchase from these guys.

I've already heard what's comming up next. It's good. Really fucking good. :NL is not a band to be ignored. They have yet to make their splash. They are potent and aren't going to give up. I'm willing to bet these guys are comming to a town near you soon. Do yourself a favor - make the drive, see the show, scream the lyrics - and for godsakes - tip the bartender.

It just might be the best night you have all month.

the_wang (June 14, 2005)

awesome awesome awesome band

Anonymous (March 28, 2005)

...you can find NORTH LINCOLN MP3s and other info here:

www.noidearecords.com
www.northlincoln.cjb.net
www.mys pace.com/northlincoln
www.purevolume.com/northlincoln

CallingLondon (March 28, 2005)

mp3s?

Anonymous (March 27, 2005)

Massel, who is self-taught on the kit, is one of the best drummers i have ever heard in my life (and i've heard a lot).

hahahaha

obviously not, cause this is some of the most straight forward and basic drumming i've heard in a long time

slippy (March 26, 2005)

Michigan punk rock represent!