Pitchfork

Since forming from the same Leeds punk scene as Delta 5 and Gang of Four, the Mekons have released so many good and spectacular albums every few years that many listeners outside their reliable fanbase might take their innovations for granted. "Dickie, Chalkie and Nobby", from the group's forthcoming Natural, doesn't exactly avoid its own legacy; "Corporal Chalkie" was a song on 2004's Punk Rock later covered by member Sally Timms on her own In the World of Him. Still, the song's earthy, genre-straddling arrangement, with hand percussion and what sounds like ukulele, shouldn't make it difficult for newcomers to see how the band could've paved the way for the likes of Uncle Tupelo. Singer-guitarist Jon Langford speak-sings about "trying to fulfill childhood dreams," and a child's backing vocal eventually underscores his theme. Of course, Langford grew up. The Mekons are now 30 years young.

MP3:> The Mekons: "Dickie, Chalkie and Nobby"
[from Natural; due 08/21/07 on Touch & Go]