Small Step Records has risen in the wake of IVM's Record label closing shop and has given a home to several faith-based pop-punk bands. One of such bands is Chives McAllster -- the solo project of Erik Williams [Cold Weather Kids]. This debut EP is entitled Refrigerator Worthy and features five tracks of emo tinged pop/punk tunes -- including the unlikeliest of pop/punk covers: "You Are My Sunshine."

You may be a little confused by the opening track. Why would a song about heartbreak be titled after a bible verse!? The title, "Psalms 34:18," is more referencing the hope that is given in that scripture than the actual scripture itself: "The Lord is near to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit" (NASB). Williams sings, "I'm finding hope in everything, in everything You've said" to close out the song. It's a cool take on the verse and a solid opening track. From heartbreak to a love song, "Butterflies" follows and hits that emo influence just a little harder. The third track shares the name of Williams' former band, "Cold Weather Kids." The lyrics are hopeful here as well. Despite struggles and feelings of loneliness, God is there -- even when you don't exactly know where. Next up is the classic country song (and one of Louisiana's state songs), "You Are My Sunshine." I've never thought of this song as a pop/punk anthem, but it works so well. It also serves as the perfect song for his newborn baby. The EP closes out with another love song in "I Can't Wait." This closer is exactly what you want from a pop/punk banger. The fast verses and the choppy chorus are textbook, and fuel all your pop/punk needs. It's a great song and a fantastic ending to the EP.

Refrigerator Worthy is a quick in-and-out as it doesn't even quite reach the 16-minute mark in total runtime. However, a lot of goodness is jammed into this short period: hopeful lyrics, an unexpected cover of a classic song, and a great mix of pop/punk energy with some emo flavoring. Small Step Records have been producing some great music during their brief time on the scene, and Chives McAllster is no exception. Punk heads and emo fans should give this one a listen. This reviewer is already looking forward to new music.

- Review date: 12/14/23, written by Michael Weaver of Jesusfreakhideout.com

 Record Label: Small Step Records
 Album length: 5 tracks: 15 minutes, 44 seconds
 Street Date: November 10, 2023
 Buy It: Apple Music
 Buy It: Amazon Music

1. Psalm 34:18 (4:25)
2. Butterflies (3:19)
3. Cold Weather Kids (3:41)
4. You Are My Sunshine (1:25)
5. I Can't Wait (2:51)