Mugged by a Ghost - Wasting Our 20s

Mugged by a Ghost -  Wasting Our 20s

Pop punk Belfast quartet Mugged by a Ghost (M.b.a.G.) are influenced by the likes of Neck Deep, who they are attempting to follow in the footsteps of by introducing to the scene their own brand of upstart antagonism with a punk-inspired backing track. Their newest track, Wasting Our 20s, hedges its bets on an upbeat, guitar-driven sound that scarcely exists anymore, which allows for a healthy dose of nostalgia to meld with their distinctly modern take on the brand of music Blink-182 made a global powerhouse.

Following the tradition of the aforementioned musical giant, M.b.a.G seem to have already grasped the fundamental twists that separated pop-punk from its heavier predecessors: well written, accessible and easily imagined lyrics. Even the title stays true to this, as it nestles within the common imagery and wordplay of relatable apprehension made so popular by Fall Out Boy. Amidst the distortion-heavy licks and feedback, there is an unmistakeable sentimental element that sounds both familiar and fresh. Rather than a weakness, M.b.a.G has turned their similarities into a strength by doubling down von their unique voice while learning from their influences.

There is much about this song that can be compared to the life of an average person in their twenties. It opens quickly, sounding exhilaratingly lively but with an inescapable, uncertain anger. Their fierce pace has an allure, but their continued momentum through the fade out of the song adds to a sense of lost control, something many of the listeners would know all too much about. Whether this is deliberate, I cannot say but it is a welcome facet that adds depth to a number that was in danger of appearing two-dimensional. Relatable and easy, Wasting Our 20s is a rousing, if repetitive, single that suggests M.b.a.G is doing the exact opposite.