As Against Me! recorded their love it or hate it debut album for Fat Wreck, As the Eternal Cowboy, the band found themselves in a quandary. They had several versions for the songs that were to appear on the disc, the difference coming in the form of being played acoustic or electric. In the end, they opted for the acoustic versions of two songs: "Sink, Florida, Sink" and "Unsubstantiated Rumors." What happened to the electric versions, you ask?

Released as a 7", Sink, Florida, Sink contains the electric versions of both the aforementioned songs. This puppy comes wrapped in one of the best looking covers I've seen for a vinyl release, and is quite admirable considering it's just two songs. Chris Norris did an excellent job designing the package, and it is too unique and attractive to leave unmentioned. Once the gingerbread men are pulled apart, lyrics will be found printed inside, along with the brown/tan record.

"Sink, Florida, Sink" has already surfaced once in its electric version, placed on the initial Rock Against Bush compilation. The original version came as a stripped down, calming sing-along that made for the perfect catch of breath between "Mutiny on the Electronic Bay" and "Slurring Rhythms." However, this alternate version cuts 30 seconds from the total play time, and definitely gives the song legs. It starts off similar enough, but once the interlaced "whoa"s hit, you really see the potential this song has. No longer a somber ballad, this version of the song is the kind you'd want to be belting out at a live show with your arm around your best friend. The electric version really redefines the original.

"Unsubstantiated Rumors" finds itself on the B-side, but ends up being the far superior song on the vinyl. The bass hits you right off the bat, and might make you think you are listening to a NOFX seven inch. It's thick and it's moving up and down the board. Continuing with the rhythm of the bass, Thomas dances around the lyrics with great pose as the song takes off and never stops. While the electric version of "Sink, Florida, Sink" still remained quite similar to the acoustic, this song is a whole new one, and completely dances circles around the original, handclaps and all.

The original versions of these songs are good, of course, and fit the pacing of the record very well. I can understand why the band would have decided to use the acoustic versions, as it helps slow the record down after big moments. However, judging the songs on their own merits, these electric versions are far superior. Most fans have already heard the electric version of "Sink, Florida, Sink" I'm sure, but with the excellent packaging and incredible B-side, I have no problem wholly recommending this.