1-2-3-4

With a name like Muck and the Mires, you might be expecting a slab of crusty Brit-style punk in the manner of the U.K. Subs or the Exploited, but 1-2-3-4, the third album from the Boston-based four-piece, confirms that these folks are good bad, not evil. Playing snappy garage rock in a '60s manner with hooks galore, chiming guitars, and solid harmonies, 1-2-3-4 is also stocked with fine original songs like the energetic "You Better Write Your Number Down" and "Don't Let Her Get Away," the enjoyably snarky "That's What I Want" and "It's About Over Now," and the lovelorn "I Never Got Over You" and "Lesley." If Muck ain't the greatest singer on earth, his slightly sandy growl fits the material well and he knows how to put the right emotions into his delivery, and with Brian Mire he's half of a very impressive guitar combination. Bassist Frankie Mire and drummer Jessie Best keep the band alive with drive, and these 12 tunes zoom by in just under a half-hour, just the way they used to do it back in the day. Fans of more punk-oriented garage stuff might find Muck and the Mires a bit light for their taste, but if you like classic garage rock that isn't afraid to fly the flag for pure pop at the same time, then 1-2-3-4 is just the record you've been needing.