Mustard Plug a tasty treat

The Midwestern men of Mustard Plug have been spreading ska all over the world for a decade. Their new disc, Yellow #5, is a rollicking celebration of 10 years of uncompromising mayhem. While this album doesn't break any new ground, it confirms the Plug's loyalty to ska music and breathes life into the struggling genre.\nFor those unfamiliar with Mustard Plug, this Grand Rapids-based sextet has been tearing up bars and clubs all over the Midwest for years. The band managed to tactfully avoid the short-lived pop embrace of ska and has had only minor radio play. This suits the band members just fine, and if you're lucky enough to catch them at the Fireside Bowl in Chicago, or any other tiny venue, you're in for the most raucous live show imaginable.\nYellow #5 exudes the frantic energy of a Mustard Plug show, an energy the band's last studio record, Pray for Mojo, lacked. Whether it's the funky bass line in "You Want It, We Got It," the spitfire vocals in "Safe" or the laid-back groove of "Already Gone," the record manages to be both sonically engaging as well as catchy and anthemic. The horn section shines in every song, firmly holding together these wild compositions.\nThe blending of punk with ska is apparent on most of the tracks. Songs like "The Park" blow away any so called "punk" bands you'll hear on rock radio or MTV.\nThe album isn't without its problems. The constantly shifting line-up in the band causes some inconsistencies. New drummer Brad Rozier manages to lay down decent drumming, but his lack of flair forces him far into the background. The vocals, which are usually incredibly strong, get lost amidst the horns and edgy guitar. The band is a bit too dependent on shout-along choruses to fill in dead space.\nAlthough there are minor troubles, the sheer exuberance of the record outweighs the imperfections. As the 11 tracks bounce by, you'll find yourself yearning for more. This is a must-own album for any true ska fan and a pretty good investment for the uninitiated. Add a little Mustard to your CD collection -- you're in for a tasty treat.