Infectious Grooves / Cyco Miko

Recorded during the double-duty tour (members played in both bands) that wound its way through Europe some 15 years ago, Funk It Up boasts two CDs featuring Suicidal Tendencies frontman Mike Muir's solo moniker, Cyco Miko, and funk/metal hybrid Infectious Grooves, with then-ST, now-Metallica bassist Robert Trujillo. Yes, it's a strange duck. No, it doesn't seem like it would work that well outside of being an immediate participator, yet it does. A half-hour-long, Punk It Up finds Muir pumped and aggressive, delivering hyperactive tunes that should have been issued under the Suicidal banner. Even though the sound quality is modestly sub-par, from the simplicity of "F.U.B.A.R." to "I Love Destruction" and its mindless theme, supported by a catchy melody, there's a tangible air of enthusiasm. The hour-plus of Funk It Up is no less energized or mighty, however. As this was 1995, only tracks from the first three efforts show up in the set and even then the majority are pulled from debut The Plague That Makes Your Booty Move, arguably their best work. Nonetheless, when tapping Sarsippius' Ark and Groove Family Cyco, the vibe is best summed up by rousing opener "These Freaks Are Here To Party." Stimulating, mostly due to Trujillo's bass magic, and incredibly nostalgic, this twin-release is long overdue.