The New York Rifles are actually from Portland.. go figure.  But aside from the geographic misdirection, the songs of leader Scott Young ring infectiously true.   Combining punk energy with big hooks, the band at times seems like the most worthy heir to the manic, wondrous glory of legendary Irish band The Undertones (especially on songs like "My Bad Habits" and I Know A Girl").

The band will be touring west of the Rockies this December in support of its new CD, Make A Wish.  Aside from Young, who sings and plays guitar, the band includes Kari Schafer (guitar, keyboard, back up vocals), Sean Moultrie (drums, back up vocals), and Brent Williams (bass, back up vocals).  

Check out our session with the band below and also be sure to check them out in December if they are playing in a town near you.  (One note: for our session, Chris Corbel filled in for regular bassist Williams).