File Under: Punk Rock rating: B tracks 1. The Best of Times 2. Two Weeks 3. Punk Underwood 4. So Disgusted 5. I Like You 6. Clever One 7. Make It So 8. The Pitcher 9. Tough Love 10. Because I Can 11. 60's 12. Look Back related links Pink and Black Records

Despite the title, there is nothing new or clever here. The Flipsides are another 3-piece punk band from the East Bay who play 2-minute or less songs and bitch about life’s little idiosyncrasies.

However, it comes off with a bit more pep due to vocalist/guitarist Sabrina Stewart’s upbeat and inviting voice. Her vocal flair will help this band stand out amongst the legion of vocalists who spout out monotone gibberish for the entire 20 minutes of their album. Stewart is easily understood and makes the most out of each song.

Beginning with the farewell to bad times song “The Best of Times,” Clever One carries us through 12 tracks that barely eclipse the 20-minute mark. Short, sweet and poppy, the way East Bay punk is served up best.

Do not expect to be challenged or to receive a political seminar upon listening, expect songs of the everyday and expect to have fun.

Samuel Barker is Senior Editor. Contact him at suma@rockzone.com.