Middle Class Rut ‘Pick Up Your Head’

  If you’re a fan of high energy rock and roll, you’ll want to check out the latest release by California alternative rockers Middle Class Rut. The dynamic duo of vocalist/guitarist Zack Lopez and vocalist/drummer Sean Stockham has a huge sound for a two piece unit and their new record, “Pick Up Your Head,” really cranks things up a notch.

  The record was self-recorded and self-produced by MC Rut and mixed by producer Dave Sardy who has worked with the likes of Johnny Cash and LCD Soundsystem. Simply put, “Pick Up Your Head” is explosive. Unlike 2010’s “No Name No Color,” the new album has a more cohesive feel and features a layering of sounds with Lopez also taking on bass guitar duties. Thundering through tracks like “Born Too Late” and the lead single “Aunt Betty,” Middle Class Rut are both exuberant and passionate and a bit out of control. Zack’s vocals have a real Beastie Boys feel to them and his guitar sounds are heavy on the reverb and whammy. The drums are kept high in the mix and incorporate some unique types of percussion including pots and pans and a wooden desk. ” Cut The Line” is an outstanding track with a bit of an industrial feel and a real cacophony of sounds including static and telephone noises. Bonus tracks include a romping cover of Tom Petty’s “I Need To Know.”

  “Pick Up Your Head” is a real step forward for Middle Class Rut as they provide a much needed breath of fresh air to the alt-rock scene.