UMUR
"Beware" is an EP release by US punk rock act The Misfits. The EP was released through Plan 9 Records in January 1980. It combines the the material from the two previously released singles "Bullet (1978)" and "Horror Business (1979)", although "Children in Heat" from the latter is replaced here by "Last Caress", which at the time was exclusive to "Beware". The EP was originally planned for a late 1979 release, and pressed to be brought with The Misfits on their November 1979 UK tour supporting The Damned. The cover artwork was not ready in time though and the release date was pushed. EP release or not The Misfits still went to England, but the tour was a disaster. The Damned didn´t know The Misfits were booked to support them, and after not receiving any payment for playing The Misfits cancelled the rest of their shows. To make matters worse lead vocalist Glenn Danzig and guitarist Bobby Steele were arrested after a fight in London and had to spend two nights in jail before returning to the US, where they found out that drummer Joey Image had quit the band.
Considering the chaotic first years of the band´s existence with several lineup changes, obscure record deals, and difficult touring experiences like the above mentioned, "Beware" is a remarkably consistent high quality release. The tracks may come from three different recording sessions, but the EP flows well and there isn´t that much difference in sound production between the various tracks. Each and every one of the 7 tracks featured on the 14:20 minutes long EP are Misfits classics, and all have subsequently been featured on other Misfits releases in either this version or similar versions. The Misfits play a simple and aggressive yet melodic type of punk rock with horror themed lyrics and imagery. It´s a good balance between instrumental punk aggression and melodic rock singing. Not completely unlike what a contemporary act like The Ramones also mastered. The two also share notable 50s rock´n´roll influences in their music.
Upon conclusion "Beware" is a high quality release by The Misfits and a boost of aggressive yet melodic energy throughout its playing time. It´s impossible not to be affected by the positive atmosphere (the campy horror grit is adorable) and youthful energy of the material and the performances. A 4 star (80%) rating is fully deserved.