Ganges Phalanges' 'Life Is Posers' explores punk with a sense of humor

• Jabroni Records

Local youngsters Ganges Phalanges are not loyal to just one offshoot of punk, as the group borrows from numerous sounds on its debut CD, Life is Posers . (Jabroni Records). Based on the album's title and artwork, some might expect to hear a modern take on classic West Coast punk sounds, complete with an occasional bass breakdown. You’ll hear that on two of the strongest cuts, “Adventure Time” and “Werewolves,” but the group refused to stick with just one time-tested sonic approach. Ska is another likely influence since half of the band performed that style in Skank Juice, but those sounds are only heard on “Daytime T.V.” There are also moments when tracks such as “Whatcha Gonna Do” and “Insomnia” mix heavy riffs with confrontational yet catchy vocals in the same vein as L7, which comes across as a good use of the band's combined talents. Thinking further outside of the box at times, the band celebrates the mundane in a fun way, reminiscent of the Descendents, on “IMMADOG.” Then there’s the gross-out humor of “I Just Threw Up a Little,” complete with hurl sounds provided by singer Amanda Anderson. Those last two examples are the keepers, as this group is at its best when its sense of humor is at the forefront.

Life Is Posers by Ganges Phalanges

Ganges Phalanges play an album release show on Fri., Aug. 22, with Campaign, Karbomb, Shelf Life, and Crab Legs. $5. 8 p.m. The Mammal Gallery, 91 Broad St. SW. 404-771-6912. www.mammalgallery.com.