Big In Japan

One-time Screeching Weasel member Zac Damon is back to helm the second album by his trio, Big In Japan. The result is another dose of bittersweet, poppy, relationship-rock, that vaguely sounds like a cross between Elvis Costello and the Attractions and Bad Religion. Though some of Damon’s lyrics are nothing to crow about, the power pop concoction of BIJ gives them a bit of blood to live with. It’s not particularly infectious and certainly not groundbreaking, but BIJ’s sophomore effort suggests that a fun-loving, endearing, classic punk band has been reined in and is itching to greet a live audience soon.