Easily the most bombastic, confrontational bands to erupt from the Fort Collins, Colorado, scene, Tanger harnesses the slicing, venomous edge of Big Black and throws in a reasonable amount of Black Flag inspired anger to create a rather vicious disc. Tanger did happen to enlist the help of a certain Steve Albini to record this album, so the slight feel of that indie rock style is present. The basic format for a Tanger song is a slashing, repetitive guitar line over a tight, locked-down rhythm section, with Jason Chinnock barking out lyrics like a drill sargeant. That is rather fitting considering the militaristic overtones of the liner notes. Chinnock pretty much has a limited range (similar to Rollins) but it is effective considering the general anger contained in the music. What Tanger does well is catch a riff that is pulsating and memorable, as in "The Night I Bombed Dresden" or "Balance". Compared to their live show, this CD still has a lot to live up to, but goes a long ways in capturing what this band is about.

Review by John Chedsey

Review date: 01/2000

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