The National Rifle – Wage Life

The National Rifle, an unsigned band out of Philadelphia, is catchy, upbeat, and has just the right combination of substance and fun lightheartedness. With a slightly unconventional background, the group has an interesting backstory – the members evaded a fate as a boy band – as well as a promising future. Occasionally employing a saxophone and infectious, anthemic choruses, The National Rifle goes from jazz to classic punk sounds in no time at all. This diversity goes together perfectly and makes The National Rifle unique and memorable. “We got strong beliefs,” they sing on “Gay Rock ‘n Roll,” and indeed they do – but they do not club the listener over the head with their message.

This fusing of genres begs to be seen in person, and the group is known for their rowdy live shows. As a band that tours extensively, The National Rifle has built a scattered but dedicated fan base. Short and sweet at just seven tracks, The National Rifle is able to keep their politically-infused lyrics tame enough so the music remains accessible, but are substantive enough to qualify them as valuable commentary. The best track is perhaps the funky and contagious “Kickin’ Dogs,” followed closely by “Girls at the Clinic,” which has a bit of a rougher edge.

This band understands their audience and are obvious music lovers – there is not one hint of pretentiousness throughout this entire album. They easily identify with who their audience is, which is articulated clearly in their lyrics and the album as a whole. A slim seven tracks keeps this album all quality and no fluff. Wage Life definitely warrants a close look, and maybe even going to see them live.