Lawrence Arms, "Buttsweat and Tears"

Fat Wreck Chords

​Has it been ten years already? The Lawrence Arms, despite only one new full-length in the past five years, celebrate their longevity with a quick-hitting EP: the maturely titled "Buttsweat and Tears." The 7" continues their celebration of alcohol abuse and apathy that has defined their work, while reminding listeners that the band still has the same moxie as when they released A Guided Tour of Chicago a decade ago.

​The record alternates lead vocalists on each song, switching between the more confrontational Brendan Kelly and the pensive Chris McCaughan. Kelly's songs feel more angry and frustrated, whereas McCaughan holds a more introspective tone, wavering in mental anguish rather than outright frustration. "The Slowest Drink..." stands out as the best song off the record, taking everything the band does well: contemplative lyrics with a touch of melancholia, fast-tempo energy, and catchy lyrics that are more substance than anthem, giving the song a personal feel as it loops in your memory.

The digital version of this EP comes with a bonus track, "Demons," that would fit well on the Falcon record, with dual vocals, crisp choruses, and even a ska breakdown. Vinyl collectors shouldn't despair, though: the song is available for free at Fat Wreck's site without a download code.