Too many splits, especially full-lengths, fail to cater to both ends of a specific genre for the two bands being featured to keep it fully interesting. However, with The Put-Ons and Deadbeat Sinatra, Basement Records has paired two bands that both plant their roots firmly in classic punk.

The Put-Ons play a style reminiscent of old TSOL with a raw vocal style, but more upbeat and with a more consistent tempo. "Jack Kevorkian Gift Certificate" isn't just one of the best song titles ever, but also shows the band's laid-back cynicism at its most apathetic nature. Their cover of Gen X's "From the Heart" provides a nice midpoint.

Although Deadbeat Sinatra carries a melodic snottiness in the vein of the Buzzcocks, The Ramones are the most obvious influence on Deadbeat Sinatra, in case both the song title "Ramones Institutionalized Party" and "Chinese Rock" cover wasn't direct enough. The guitars are ripped right from them, but are tucked safely under the roughly-woven vocal patterns. The chorus of "Beat Street" is like nostalgia of Green Day's Lookout days.

Seven and Seven is straight to the point with not a whole lot of dull moments, and two solid covers representing just what the bands are taking heed in. Plus, it's dirt cheap.

MP3s
The Put-Ons - Makes No Difference
Deadbeat Sinatra - Baby Doll