You know Dunwoody, Georgia, do you?

Of course you don’t. Well, don’t worry. Anyway, it’s the hometown of a band you surely know: The Black Lips. This self defined “flower punk” quartet – or gang, should we say? – has a history of crazy behaviour, high energy performances, criminal records, urban legends, embarrassing truths and incredible albums. They recently closed a deal with über-indie label Vice Records (linked to the hipsters’ Bible Vice Magazine) and issued an acclaimed record entitled “Arabia Mountain” – the sixth studio work in 12 years (they’ve also released 22 singles and two live albums, just for the record).

Black Lips, after more than 10 years, are still the same bunch of restless kids capable of being kicked out of high school for being a “subculture danger”; but with their latest effort they decided to stress a new (at least for them) concept: they want to prove that there is more to it than just shock value.

So music is king, this time… no more fighting, cursing, beer spitting, being chased, being arrested and no more antisocial behaviour; well, at least this is the official version. But be sure that live they’ll always find a way to push the boundaries and shock many… after all, this is their nature. But it’s undeniable that “Arabia Mountain” is a superb record, funny, clever, full of energy and great songwriting. A real gem in the indie punk rock universe.