The Mekons' sound is one part punk, one part country, with a New Wave chaser. Bristling with anti-establishment verve, this collective was formed in the galvanizing chaos of early British punk rock. An art-school background informed their vanguard sensibility; even as the group's songs evolved beyond early lo-fi efforts, they continued to play with contrast. Though not a founding member, singer Sally Timms is key to this fluid appeal. Her wiry energy and shapeshifting voice—a throaty growl here, a torchy croon there—dances with the chug and gallop of Jon Langford's rangy guitar, to brilliant effect.