"Address to the Nation" on our own I-94 Bar Records is the latest album from Chris Masuak and the Viveiro Wave Riders. If we do say so ourselves, it's the equal-best Australian release this year (the other being "Open Season" by labelmates Mick Medew and the Mesmerisers.) .

After a series of requests from fans, we decided to ask Chris Masuak to take us through the album track-by-track. Here it is in Klondike's own insightful words:

1776

There’s been a lot of discussion on social media about whether artists (and I use that term loosely with respect to myself) should be political commentators or just shut up and play. I copped a lot of flack for stating that to do nothing is to abdicate your rights as a human being. One thing led to another which led to a song which I think is actually quite positive.

PICK UP THE PIECES

I was watching a documentary about the industry of war. Even the poor sods who go off to “protect their way of life” get hosed. If they’re lucky enough to make it home there’s no one there to pick up the pieces.

FFS

A wistful commentary on times past.

TRANCE

I had Mick Medew in mind when I wrote this one. A certain singer (not Mick) complained about my penchant for using Middle Eastern motifs. So, I included said motifs.

GUN SONG

There was an article somewhere about survivors of shootings in The Land Of The Free. The photos were horrific.

ALL AROUND

We played this song a lot on a tour of France. We didn’t know if we really wanted to record cover version, but it has the coolest riff. And, an underlying creepiness in keeping with the album’s vibe. It was written by Greg Bowen.

NAKED CITY

I wrote this after listening to David Johansen’s debut album. I don’t pretend it’s as cool, but it’s fun to play.

JUST GO AWAY

I have no idea what this song is about. We just have a blast playing it.

THIS BAR

This one has been following me around for decades. The guys in the Wave Riders really love it, so we keep playing it.

WISHFUL THINKING

More constructive criticism wrapped up in a power punk package.

"Address to the Nation" is on CD. Hear the album for yourself and buy it at Bandcamp or score a copy on eBay. Visit Chris Masuak on the Net or on Facebook.