Add 24 Reasons Why to the roster of bands that keep the local punk scene alive-a band so skilled in So-Cal's fundamentals that it mavens seamless execution. The punk quartet-fronted by the God Damn Doowop Band's Kat Naden-packs a potent punch on debut "Start it all Again," an album gaining power in the band's decision to deliver an album barely trumping an EP's load of tracks, shrugging off modern tendencies of longevity for good, plain form."Start It All Again" covers a cluster of frequently underscored life moments-the gossiping foes, lost or anticipated love, and train track ruminations-all romanticized by genuine intensity and emotion. And that's just the lyrics. A surfer rock motif twangs "Learnin' Ain't Fun," meshing a sweet melodic verse ("Guess it's hard sometimes to say what you meant") with Kat's raspy, pungent vocals ("I hope it eats you up inside"). Despite its cynical title, "Another Song I'll Probably Regret (And Already Kinda Do)" is damn fine pop punk, backed by drummer Nate's vocals and a fast-jabbing chorus.The brief eight-track album leaves ample room for 24 Reasons Why to sustain on succeeding releases-signaling the band certainly knows how to entice the listener-by leaving their appetite uncurbed. Too much of a good thing is bad when just a little bit can do the trick. "Start It All Again" can attest to that.by Crystal Erickson - Rift Magazine
