“Listen up for the chainsaw,” screams (let’s not call anything here singing) Dan, the founder of BottleBelt. Apparently, the band is built around a character he created. This line kicks off “Don’t Drink and Die,” the opening cut on Toxic Brew. Calling them “songs” feels a bit generous, to be honest.
It’s nasty, it’s filthy, and you wouldn’t want them living next door—but good luck ignoring it. The title track warns you off, but if you insist on drinking it down, hold your nose.
This music is as subtle as a boot to the bollocks when someone nicks your pint. (Is it okay to admit I don’t actually drink in this company?) Whatever the case, “Beer Filled Fury” basically sums up the experience. Alistair—these lads don’t bother with surnames, perhaps to throw the police off the scent?—kicks out the riffs with authority. And let’s not overlook the brilliance of the drummer being listed as “TBC” in the press pack. He’s probably hungover.
These Mancunian boys are tremendous fun. This four-tracker could engender a mosh pit in a morgue. Case in point: “Your Misery” beats you senseless just to drive it home.
Listening to Toxic Brew is like finding a two-day-old chicken wing in a KFC. You know you shouldn’t want it. You know it’s greasy and horrible. But, despite yourself, you love it.
Rating: 8/10
