The cover of this album contains four frames depicting virtually the same thing: people watching TV. In the first three images, the viewer basks complacently or sleepily in the midst of the glowing menace. In the last image, however, the viewer has evidently chosen to read instead; barely distinguishable in the background is a bullet hole in his television screen. Something more dangerous. An inside image conveys a similar idea. A congested queue of typical city- folk mindlessly amble through their routinized lives while an elevated onlooker perceives them through a magnifying glass. The magnified picture is one of common citizens revolting against their nation's military. Interesting suggestions indeed.

The sociopolitical commentary provided by the artwork and the militant slant of both band name and album title prepare me for the punkest of punk rawk bands-- abrasive shards of distorted madness perfectly suited for the anarchic ideas the music is trying to evoke. I'm not looking forward to the review. Though anti- establishment ideas certainly intrigue me, the corresponding sounds of such bands normally shatter my interest within seconds. Imagine my surprise when the first song on Something More Dangerous begins and I hear singing rather than gurgling, melodic chord progressions as opposed to blockheaded reliance on e-chugging, and capable musicianship rather than performers who seem to drop their instruments while recording.

Not to suggest this approach doesn't have its weaknesses. For something that's supposed to be "more dangerous," it's terribly derivative, in a vein similar to other Lookout! bands, especially early Screeching Weasel. The most "dangerous" thing the band attempts is the ballad, "Yesterday's Kisses;" it's probably their most unsuccessful move, too. But overall, Something More Dangerous is an entertaining listen. The songs are replete with hooks and offer an engaging mix of aggression and playfulness. The guitarists aren't afraid to go beyond the traditional power- chord, and songs like "Human Price" are justly served as a result. Though not guided entirely by social consciousness, songs like "Bomb For The Mainstream" and "Status Symbol Land" demonstrate they are at least concerned.

Moral Crux's interpretation of danger certainly won't revolutionize the world; it's not even likely to cause a ripple in the sea of punk rock. Still, a subtle approach can sometimes yield surprising results. Let's see what these guys do next.

-Kevin Ruggeri