Five Iron Frenzy

Item: Upbeats and Beatdowns
Author: Kevin D. Hendricks

Upbeats and Beatdowns

(1996)

Reviewed by Kevin D. Hendricks

Discogs Apple Music TIDAL Amazon Music Spotify YouTube Music

Label 5 Minute WalkReAL Magazine1997

punk ska ska punk

This is a fast paced, fun album. It hardly ever slows down, and when it does, it's only long enough to say, "Shut up." It may sound a little less polished in comparison with Our Newest Album Ever, but that's probably because it is. Upbeats and Beatdowns was recorded in seven days, while the drums alone took seven days to record on Our Newest Album Ever. But that doesn't mean this album is sub-quality. It's a blast to listen to and you can tell that behind the zanyness and sarcasm Five Iron has a lot to say.

"The Old West" sarcastically speaks of the days of the (you guessed it) Old West when Native Americans were butchered while Christians stood silently. The song speaks out against working your way to heaven. "Anthem" is a powerful song that stresses the greater freedom we have in Christ. "Shut Up" is a stellar example of studio boredom.

The song "Beautiful America" has received a lot of flack for being anti-American with the line, "America-Gomorrah." But this song defiantly speaks out against the selfish attitudes that make up modern America. The comparison between America and Gomorrah can't be that far from the truth.

"Combat Chuck" has to be a fan favorite, though it's clear the band was never thrilled with the rush recording job. In Our Newest Video Ever, you'll notice that instead of singing "Combat Chuck, pick it up, pick it up!" they sing, "This song sucks, pick it up, pick it up!"

"A Flowery Song" has to be one of the best songs on the album. It's an awesome praise song that uses the chorus of the Doxology.

Upbeats and Beatdowns is a fast and furious introduction to Five Iron Frenzy, in all their sarcasm and seriousness.