Nicole Brice
Apr 9, 2025
Blueprints for a Breakdown is one of those EPs you can listen to repeatedly without growing tired of it.
The members of T. Mason & the Bricklayers, based in Baton Rouge, Louisiana are well-versed in creating music that resonates with audiences. Each member has been involved in various projects over the years, but they have now come together to make an impact in the reemerging pop-punk scene. Their latest release, Blueprints for a Breakdown, is a classic punk EP filled with catchy hooks, heavy basslines, and feel-good music reminiscent of the early 2000s. It truly captures the sound of my youth.
Travis Mason's vocal delivery is strikingly similar to Fat Mike from NOFX, making the comparison quite remarkable. He could easily cover a NOFX song. Joshua Selser is a powerhouse on the bass, and that's no exaggeration. He takes center stage with his playing, and the tone he adds to each song by T. Mason & The Bricklayers is undeniable. Andy Clancy’s guitar playing is precise, creating a remarkable sound that ties the Bricklayers' overall sound together.
Released March 9, 2025, Blueprints for a Breakdown is one of those EPs you can listen to repeatedly without growing tired of it. Each time you hear it, the music feels even fresher than the last. After reading this review, I encourage you to check out the band's music. They have released quite a bit over the years.
Let’s get into the tracks, shall we?
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Busy Signal – no lead-up – jumps right out of the gate – a solid track.
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Another Friday Night begins with that heavy bassline that I love. Travis then comes in on the drums, and Andy’s guitar parts are tight and energetic. Turn this one up loud!
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Shabang! A thunderous rolling of the instruments begins this track, which just starts going and never lets up. It's another solid tune.
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Sour Candy is my favorite track on the EP; however, all the songs are amazing. Everything about this song feels just right. The guitar parts at the beginning perfectly match the song's slower pace. I also really like the lyrics. ‘Sour Candy’ has a more alternative sound vs the pop punk sound heard on previous tracks.
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Stand on My Shoulders is another pop punk banger. It’s upbeat, poetic, and embodies the sound of T. Mason & The Bricklayers.
Blueprints for a Breakdown is an enjoyable EP that is best listened to in the car with the windows down. This way, you can fully appreciate all the sounds it has to offer. The EP is now available on all streaming platforms, so add some local Baton Rouge punk rock to your playlist today.
To learn more about T. Mason & The Bricklayers:
YouTube:
Bandcamp:
Blueprints for a Breakdown | T. Mason and the Bricklayers
Facebook:
Instagram:
T. Mason & The Bricklayers (@t.mason_and_thebricklayers) • Instagram photos and videos
Spotify:
T. Mason & The Bricklayers | Spotify
Apple Music:
‎T. Mason & The Bricklayers - Apple Music
*Additional photos by Gary Governale
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