D @ vA Have an idea for a story? M arts@theotherpress.ca ‘It was fun while it lasted’ offers a long-lasting satisfying time » Vancouver punk rock band The Pack A.D’s last album is eclectic and laidback Jonathan Pabico Contributor ead singer Becky Black and drummer Maya Miller are at it again as the famed Canadian punk rock duo from Vancouver. Their newly released album, It was fun while it lasted, creates a melancholic tone with songs that convey how perfect they would be for your upcoming road trip— but also frustration and disappointment about how that chance may not come. The collection helps listeners accept that uncertainty and sets out to immerse you in its cool punk rock beats. Perhaps the most surprising aspect about this soundtrack is how heavily restrained it is. Make no mistake, the album is still punk rock—yet most of the songs never get too crazy or overly frenetic with their rhythms. Tracks like “Soul Warden” have the typical punk tones yet also offer soothing vocals. Fans can still appreciate these songs while experiencing a different side to the band’s craft. It was fun while it lasted may be underwhelming to those expecting more from the collection. The album does not surpass The Pack A.D’s past work like Dollhouse and Do Not Engage, which certainly are more edgy and aggressive. However, it is certainly different from its Armed citizenry: A right, an a defense against tyranny predecessors. Songs like “Wings” and “Reprogram’” feature calmer and slower guitar riffs balanced with simple beats from the drum set. They establish a more relaxing atmosphere that frees you from stress for your afternoons. One of the band’s admirable traits is how they use their music to explore » ‘The Right to Arms’ essay review EG Manilag Staff Writer wkweK KY f guns are outlawed, only outlaws will have guns.” This quote comes from “The Right to Arms,” a short essay written by American author Edward Abbey from his book Abbey’s Road (1979). In this narrative, Abbey reveals his strong emotions about those who might try to oppose or take away people's rights and freedoms. The essay begins by explaining how weapons before were totally banned from peasants and private citizens; weapons such as bows, arrows, crossbows, swords, and the obvious—firearms. He stresses the harsh, unfair, and deadly consequences that these people faced if they tried to break the law. From example, some oligarchy countries torture their citizens if they are caught (or suspected to be) hiding firearms. As for the ruling class, they get all the rights and privileges to own firearms. And what does this lead to? According to Abbey, this unfair situation will always lead to a predicted revolt. No matter how much the citizens revolt against the government, as long as the former bears sticks and the latter bears guns, it will always be no match. He further argues that guns are weapons of democracy and not of dictatorship. He adds, “Not for nothing was the revolver called an ‘equalizer:” Abbey gives a compelling argument with regards to the rights and freedoms of citizens to bear arms; however, in my opinion, he passively avoids the plausible violence it can cause to society. Maybe he was right for arguing for people’s rights to own weapons so that they can have a fighting chance against the tyrannical ruling class. But you simply cannot talk about guns without considering the problems to peace they may have. Moreover, it is widely observed that most countries that have strict gun laws— such as Australia, Germany, Japan, and the Illustration by Morgan Hannah depression and anxiety. They not only raise awareness about mental illness by doing this, they also make their work more relatable to listeners. In their first song, “Give Up,” Black and Miller employ the lyric “Tell me youre scared, who cares? We're all scared somehow." This part of the song conveys the theme of how everyone has United Kingdom—have less gun homicides than those countries whose citizens are more freely armed. There is a great importance in government intervention when it comes to firearms, regardless of that infringing on personal liberty. Because at the end of the day, you cannot please two masters at the same time. So, it is better—way better—to have a bureaucratic way of selling guns to citizens. Not only can it help on tracking criminals, it can also prevent accidental firearm deaths. The abovementioned are just some of my concerns. The essay, ultimately, has a lot to offer even though it is short. It is quite historical and uses persuasive and reasonable evidence. The author does a good job formulating this d La Ney] ey le Ne ¢ A world without Garfield e ‘The Right to Arms’ essay review ¢ Sad songs for dark times ..and more fears and that we are never alone in feeling this way. Another positive is the band’s eclectic approach in fusing their work with other genres. The last two songs “Check Engine Light” and “The Gap” have country rock undertones with resonating guitar sounds. They also keep a more contained rock aesthetic to end the album, making these tracks a suitable musical score for a punk western film. Black and Miller bravely employ different undertones so that anyone can be satisfied by their diverse musical tastes. Moreover, Black and Miller perform some tracks like “Gas Station Food” that transform into music you might hear at a Halloween rock concert. This piece excels with rollicking dynamics through Miller’s more reserved drum beat to better foreground Black’s thrilling vocals. The song evokes a spooky atmosphere without losing its punk flair. Overall, It was fun while it lasted is enjoyable to listen to and provides some solace for fans, despite not surpassing the band’s previous work. If you are looking for more straightforward and aggressive punk rock, then the band’s currently released music may disappoint you. The Pack A.D’s album offers songs worthy of joining your personal playlist for 2020. “One of the very best writers to deal with the American West.” Cover of 'Abbey's Road' by Edward Abbey convincing and thought-provoking essay. I really do encourage the readers to lend some of their time to understanding Edward Abbey’s pro-gun rights piece.