The Muggs - 'Slave To Sound'

(Muggs Music)

The Muggs are a power rock trio hailing from Detroit in the USA! And have been happily flying under the radar since the year 2000. The Muggs are an Alternative rock act with an extremely eclectic range of influences which are displayed throughout this album ‘Slave to Sound’. They perform a style of alt pop rock which is popular in the States especially during the Noughties. They craft songs with plenty of vocal harmonies and strong melodies to hook you in and a lot of the guitar work has a retro seventies edge to it.

Vocalist Danny Muggs has a bit of grit in his voice which accentuates the blues feel I get from some of the songs, at times making me think of the Jon Butler Trio – sort of! It’s more than a blues fuelled album though their influences are varied and on display on many different songs. ‘After The Ending’ has a full-blown Americana vibe with its meandering and whimsical flow, which juxtaposes the groovier blues rockers. Another curveball is ‘Magnet and Steel’ which could have been an old school rock n roll ballad from the 50’s which emphasises just how diverse The Muggs can be.

Given the different styles and influences on display I think highbrow musos will love consuming and dissecting ‘Slave To The Sound’. It’s definitely not a commercial album, there’s no hit singles in the waiting here, but I know there are a lot of hardcore music lovers out there that will enjoy this album immensely.

For me though and I’m sure fair-weather music fans as well The Muggs are nothing mind blowing, their songs are pleasant and enjoyable but not something I’d listen to repetitively. I like the diversity in their song writing and will always be curious about any further albums. Musically these guys especially brothers Danny and Tony Muggs are extremely talented and perform superbly and have a lot to offer the music world – I’m sure these guys will have devout followers and deservedly so. You’ll either love these guys or be left indifferent by them!

6/10

Essential Track - 'Magnet & Steel'

Review By Woody