Old 97's: Mimeograph [EP]

Old 97's
Mimeograph [EP]
New West Records [2010]









Fire Drill Review:
Mimeograph is the new covers EP from our favorite Dallas band the Old 97's. It is a simple four song record that tackles The Rolling Stones, The Fratellis, R.E.M. and David Bowie. It is about a 50/50 success rate as the Scottish bounce in The Fratellis "For The Girl" fits nicely into the bands playful side, while Bowie's "Five Years" has Rhett Miller giving it a true emotional Americana take. "Rocks Off" by the Stones doesn't totally work because the Old 97's just are not gritty enough while "Driver 8" is a little too similar. Mimeograph still is a solid little edition to their catalog that should be a must pickup for fans. It also is a nice teaser before their new record hits later this year.

Key Track: "Five Years" (David Bowie)

Band With Similar Fire: Nada Surf

Old 97's: Wreck Your Life...And Then Some: The Complete Bloodshot Recordings [Fire Note Review 1/25/10]
Old 97's: Blame It On Gravity [Fire Note Review 5/27/08]

Official Old 97's Website
Old 97's MySpace
Old 97's Facebook
New West Records

-Reviewed by Christopher Anthony