Indonesian Junk mainman Daniel James releases a four-track EP in January 2025 and I’m all over it like a cheap suit. Of Course, it’s lo-fi down n dirty street punk Rock n Roll because that’s simply what Daniel does and does it better than most. Opening with the title track its got its feet straddling the Replacements meet Thunders Rock n Roll camps with a healthy dose of Roots Rock n Roll thrown into the mix as well as (it would seem) a great knowledge and love of more punky further reaching music, but more of that later. The opener reminds me of Scott Sorry and Mike Ness for the gravelly vocals giving it large with an excellent melody that just flows in the kinda way Jesse Malin does.

‘Misery’ is the kinda laid-back sloppy Rock n Roll with the tortured vocals laying their truth out there for the world to hear. The song meanders carefree with some great guitar breaks emphasising the song beyond a style and the gang vocals are killer. ‘Lies’ injects a much quicker tempo offering some sprightly punk rock n roll, not trying to be clever or original it’s just a good time honest really well-written punk n roll and played with heart and soul. It’s short and sweet and lands a hefty punch. Daniel Is a really good songwriter be it as a solo band or with Indonesian Junk. All roads on this EP lead to the cover of the New Model Army classic ‘The Hunt’ sure it’s never going to be better but as far as interpretations go its captured the energy and power that Sullivan conveys in the original yet its got enough of its own style going on whilst not trying to be clever. A great song is a great song and this is right up there and this version is pretty damn good.

Exactly what a great EP should be – some new music, great original tunes and a cover that raises an eyebrow but in a good way. The Daniel James Gang delivers an excellent bite-size new record to kick 2025 off in style. I recommend you dive in a give it a go because you won’t be disappointed the guy is a talent and you might just discover your new favourite band. Buy It!