Freddy Fudd Pucker is “a one-boy band who plays a form of folk/thrash”. He sounds like a faster version of the Drive-By Truckers in places, or perhaps a better comparison would be Frank Turner. This album, recorded in Berlin where Tom (or possibly Bill) Young has been living for a few years, arrives inside one of the coolest packaging comics you’ll ever see. Originally from Dunedin, he plays almost everything on the songs, excepting a couple of drum tracks and a bit of singing. He has created a collection of songs that are driving, energetic and melodic, with something to appeal to everyone.

Young has a great singing voice, and really puts some guts into it. This music is a lot more accessible than his previous outings, easy to clap and sing along to. His lyrics are chock-full of imagery, and if that isn’t enough the accompanying comic has actual images for you to feast your eyes on while listening. Wait, Young drew all the art himself too? This annoyingly talented Fudd Pucker deserves our attention. A bit of quick Facebook stalking reveals that FFP is currently touring in the US. If this release is any measure, he should be doing very well over there.

Hourglass Wine by Freddy Fudd Pucker