4 PAST MIDNIGHT - 100% Punk Adv Tape (23 Abercrombie Crescent, Bargeddie, Glasgow, G69 7SR)
Due to be released on Pete Troll's label in May, this is a colossal 26 tracker by 4PM who we haven't heard from in a long long time (issue 4 or 5 I think)
Anyway this includes a lot of their tracks from previous demos and some new numbers, all being recorded recently and sound great. There's some real cool contrasts on here with one turn 4PM play their fast Oi Polloi sounding punk and then in another breath they're crankin' out some melodic numbers in the vein of Stiff Little Fingers. There's even my fave 4PM ditty UK of A on here which sounds even better than before. Good to see these guys back at it.

4 SQUARE/BOLLWEEVILS - Carol EP 7" (Dr Strange)
4 Square kick off this split with two straight ahead fast paced HC tracks with razor burn vocals which is cool by me. On the flip the Bollweevils deliver two tracks in their usual distinctive punk hardcore vein. Class split.

46 SHORT - S/T EP 7" (Last Dollar Records, PO Box 3980, Long Beach, CA 90803, USA.)
This is 46 Short's debut EP, hailing from Long Beach these guys play old style US hardcore that was so prominent in the early to mid 80s. Kind of a cross between Chaos UK, Minor Threat and the Angry Samoans, fine debut and on grey vinyl, look forward to more from this band.

46 SHORT/MOTHER FUCKING TITTY SUCKING - Split EP 7" (Last Dollar Records)
46 Short take the reigns with this split EP and treat us to two mid 80s punk numbers Recipe For Misery is particularly good. On the other side the crappy titled MFTS play 4 tracks of very basic punk that would not have been out of place on the AT release Not So Quiet On The Western Front many moons ago. But these sound a little dated now

59 TIMES THE PAIN - End of The Millennium CD (Burning Heart Records)
Well it maybe just me but I think 59 Times The Pain seem to be changing direction slightly. This album has the feeling of a new sound, subtle I agree but a change all the same and one away from the NYHC sound to a more punk based Oi rawness that had me thinking of the Angelic Upstarts especially Working Man Hero. For me that's great as I find the NYHC sound is becoming a little stale now and every man and his dog are at it. 59 Times.. seem to be kicking new life into an old genre so when I first put on this I expected a Millennium bug in an outdated machine I found a re-configured system ready to tackle the challenges of a new century. Great stuff and I'm a born again.

88 Fingers Louie - Back On The Streets CD (Hopeless Records)
The band with Chrysalid fingers return or should I say reform with the aptly titled Back On The Streets. The band that's had more record labels than hot dinners return with a heap more drive than their last effort and a new drummer who hits harder. Whilst retaining that poppy punk style that made them so popular they have injected a speedball in their veins to ply a more aggressive style with more pace. There's 15 new tracks and a Bad Brains cover to get your teeth into and those riffs certainly need all 88 fingers to make Louie hit the spot. Well chanting choruses and harmonious melody that has a real edge and a bit of a Bad Religion feel here and there. Fine return and one to keep the kids happy.

999 - Slam! CD (Overground)
The emergency services of punk who will be remembered for such classics as Nasty, Nasty , Scandal In The City, Emergency, Change, etc are laid bare here in the form of lost demo tapes. Including the infamous Slam these tracks are largely taken from the band's Biggest Prize In Sport and Concrete albums released in the early 80s. Some what older and sizeable than the pictures in this CD, 999 were a mighty fine band and a stormer live. I remember seeing them last in 1987 and they were totally excellent then. This is a great selection of tracks that will be worth a listen to fans old and new.

AFI - Black Sails In The Sunset CD (Nitro Records)
All power to AFI for trying something different only I just couldn't get along with this it sounds like Guns Roses meets Aerosmith for a cup of tea and a line of coke. AFI are the new wave of US metalers so all hail their arrival… if you want to that is!

ALTERNATIVE TV - Apollo CD (Overground Records)
Mark Perry is a non stop creative machine since starting Sniffin' Glue - the first UK punk zine - back in 1976. Along the way he's started his own label, formed this band Alternative TV and has released 40 albums and singles, written a book and is currently writing another two. At 40 this man just can't seem to stop and this new album is a merit to his ethics of non conformity, "Kill it when it becomes popular" philosophy and constant experimentation. Apollo is an album that contains some fine combinations of instruments which are all over laid with Perry's rasping vocals. This is an interesting album that has lots of variety mixing hip hop with dance and an underlying punk attitude which becomes quite catchy and addictive after a number of listens.

ANNALISE - You Can Dye Your Hair… But Not your Heart CD (KYMF Records)
This release has a great tale attached to it but I'll not go into it too much here. This is a great compilation of some of Annalise's finest earlier moments including their first EP on Pigdog, plus FetteredI EP and a track from the Snuffy Smile release The Best punk Rock In England, Man. Great collection of fine up tempo melodic hardcore with an emo feel to them. Annalise are simply cool and these tracks were great when released on their original labels so that ain't gonna change now.

APOCALYPSE BABYS - Nuclear Rain 7" (Therapeutic Records)
Sue the bastards, fucking sacrilege, the Apocalypse Bjorn Babys Again have turned into one of those tribute bands to 70s disco gods ABBA and obviously without permission. Ha, I couldn't resist that opening as Asterix who is now know as Asterix Benny to his friends told me the US label that put this dancing queen of a 7" out are wetting their pants about being sued over the b-side. OK so I won't mention the A.B.B.A word again. On with the review there's just two tracks on here the first and title track is taken from their rather cool WDYTOISF CD and is an exceptional track that Fernando would have been proud of and I think old Nelson could have done with it at Waterloo. But anyway on to the flip and Mama Mia this is an ABBA cover which most people with any years behind them will recognise instantly as Does Your Mother Know and it's a bloody top version too. I bet those ABBA publishing companies will be knocking at the door for their MCPS royalties right now. Only 500 available (just declare them as promo copies!)so get your roller skates on get this before you can't.

APOCALYPSE BABYS - What Do You Think of It So Far... Adv Tape (23 Monsal Drive, Sth Normanton, Alfreton, DE55 2BG, UK)
This should be out now, the mighty Apocalypse Babys release another album and for me this is the Babys in their finest hour. The opening track is a sheer Eddie Cochran moment before the second and title track kicks in with the band's usual melodic punk assault. From start to finish this album rocks and every track is a gem also features the excellent Nuclear Rain, Jacqueline, Ghost Town and United We Stand… This is truly cool so get your mits on this album and get in tune with Babys cool world.

APOCALYPSE HOBOKEN - House of the Rising Sun of a Bitch CD (Kung Fu Records)
With a varied sound and some interesting musical moments plus some really HR vocals, Apocalypse Hoboken produces a cool album of melodic punk.

ASSMEN - Enema Nation CD (Dirty Records)
Take it like a man 'cos the Assmen are here with the colonic irrigating CD Enema Nation. 11 snot fuelled shit kicking raw ass punk numbers to give your bowels a good seeing to. From the biblical Beer Is Good Food to Adjusting My Nuts and Latrine Duty the Assmen deliver fuck-you punk with GG Allin panache including the rectal attack version of Happy Together. Top Hole!

ASSORTED JELLYBEANS - What's Really Going On CD (Kung Fu Records)
Having the benefit of reviewing this CD after the incident in Leeds involving the Vandals and Assorted Jellybeans I feel very much inclined to say this is a heap of crap. Instead I'll be professional and review this impartially. So a new album from AJB, I really liked their debut it was raw, in your face and had energy spewing out of its guts. This on the other hand feels very polished, forced and fitting to a prescribed formula. If you've not heard their debut you'll probably be impressed, I on the other hand was a bit disappointed by both the band and the music. Their title is so apt I think I could laugh in a hysterical sarcastic fit.

THE ATARIS - Blue Skies, Broken Hearts… Next 12 Exits CD (Kung Fu Records)
I think I've falling for this band big style I love their real simple songs that convey such power and emotional intensity that just brings Farside to mind with a bit of early ALL. Blue Skies… is their new album that is a colossal 14 ditty disc which just oozes talent and catchy as catchy can be songs which have more hooks than J R Hartley. You don't need to know anymore, just go out and fucking buy it!

THE ATARIS - Look Forward To Failure MCD (Fat Wreck Chords)
Candy floss emo style poppy punk that sounds like a cross between latter day Lagwagon and Farside - a pretty potent combination! Multi layered vocals, pounding drums and catchy song structures make the Ataris a force to be reckoned with. The 6 tracks on here are excellent mid tempo cuts of joyous tunes with boring lyrics… but they rock big style.

BADLEY RAWN BOY - EP3 CDEP (XL Recordings)
This is a weird affair the best track on here is I Need A Sign which sounds like an early Beatles demo and is really good. The rest is a bit hit and miss and you end up wanting to smash the guy's guitar up at the end so bland is some of it.

BASEMENT JAXX - Remedy CD (XL Recordings)
This record has the worst lyrics I think I've ever seen but that's dance music for you. So onto the music the album starts off quite promising with a nice acoustic guitar riff that is then destroyed by the most horrendous over processed vocals that sound like some poor man's 70s reject band. The rest of the album follows in a very generic dance way and really is nothing to write home about.

BEATSTEAKS - Launched CD (Epitaph)
This is more like it, at last a release with something different to offer. Hailing from Germany, the Beatsteaks contrast intense power trip guitars with the distorted vocals of Skin Yard in one song before shifting the pitch and delivering the sweetest melodies ala Starmarket on this bitter sweet album of excellence. From the start you don't know what's coming next and there's a surprise in every song that makes you cheer inside for the sheer variety. I'm hooked and tracks like Panic, Shiny shoes and Shut Up Stand Up make the Beatsteaks stand out as one of Epitaph's better signings. Also they cover metalheads Manowar's Kings of Metal for a laugh. Get this it launched me into space for a new exploration of the music that's termed punk.

BEAUTY SCHOOL DROPOUT - Teasing The Fat Kids Adv Tape (Thems Good)
Scott's glamour pussies Beauty School Dropout are back with a fucking classic album. Full to the brim of pop fuelled fast paced punchy punk rock with hooks to die for and simply classic catchy anthems that you'll be humming for years. Including some fine tracks from their demos plus a batch of new numbers this album is fucking cool and when it's out on Thems Good you better buy it as I've just about worn out this tape copy. So get out your wallet chains, baggy jeans, vans and appropriate band/label Tee and join BSD in teasing the Fat kids.

BETTER THAN A THOUSAND - Value Driven CD (Epitaph)
OK I'm going to take this review in two stages firstly the music and secondly the lyrics. Ray Cappo returns with those very distinctive vocals that when ever I hear his voice, think that he's going to say "Take AAAAAAAAAAAA… Stand!" but now of course these days it's "Buy SOOOOME… beads!". No I said I'd do this in two parts and I will, so to the music well I have a fond love of the early SEHC bands and YOT were an excellent band and even with Shelter I don't think the music has ever faltered it still holds the energy that those pioneering bands had so this album is no different and the sounds are mighty fine. As for the lyrics, well I do have a real problem with them, they're so fucking patronising and has take SE to the ridiculous extreme "Slave to the habit, a bottle, a pill - what will you do ?… you're losing your mind and losing your will. Is that really you ?" Ray Cappo has more in common with Jimmy Swaggert - as he becomes the Krishna evangelist! - I really think that the kids have more about them than to bow in awe. I accept that every one has their views but they're not forcing them down your throat, give us a break. So Better Than A Thousand good music but don't preach to me, if I want to find religion I'll go to a church or run around saying Gouranga (Be Happy) - OK so we're a covert Krishna zine you've sussed us!!!

BOLLWEEVILS - History of The Bollweevils Part 11 CD (Dr Strange Records)
This is the second instalment of the History of… series of rare, out of print or unreleased tracks by the magnificent Bollweevils. 24 historical ditties including a batch of covers of Descendents, Freeze and Naked Ragun numbers. Great Document of a great band.

BOMBSHELL ROCKS - Street Art Gallery CD (Sidekicks Records)
What explosive stuff this is, take the 70s style punk of the Clash and like a human cannonball send them rocketing through time to the present with the sound of the Swingin' Utters and you've got the awesome sounding Bombshell Rocks. 12 earth shattering slash 'n' burn punk anthems from this bunch of Swedish punkers and great Chuck Wagon style Keyboards on The Will The Message. Great release on Burning Heart's new side label, Bombshell Rocks rule.

BOUNCING SOULS - Hopeless Romantic CD (Epitaph)
The souls of bouncing punk tunage return for their forth appearance of the long player variety and deliver another classic. The Souls can't do much wrong in my book and this album doesn't disappoint, Hopeless Romantic has a great sound and strangely the feel of a vinyl release with the opening title track having the sound of the stylus hitting the wax and there's the odd crackle and over saturation here and there for effect. 14 great harmony laden tunes with slight Youth Brigade overtones that make you feel good and ready to get going in a morning. The Bouncing Souls should be on prescription and certainly are the recipe for happy days. Hopelessly cool and a must for your collection.

BOUNCING SOULS - Tie One On CD (Epitaph)
The excellent bike brigade display their performance talents in the form of a live recording in New York last July. The Souls tear through 8 old classics live and there's a new studio recording tagged on the end. It's OK as far live recordings go.

THE BOYS - Sick On You 7" (Vinyl Japan Records)
Great to see these great tracks out again, the Boys are fucking cool and Sick On You is an absolute classic, the first time I heard this I was so impressed that I went out and scoured second hand shop for their albums. The flip features another Boys tune Soda Pressing which is cool but not as powerful as the title track. Just get it and hear what cool bands used to sound like - feel the energy.

BRAND NEW UNIT - Diddley Squat CD (Creative Man Disc)
Their follow up to their compilation of tracks Looking Back In Anger and this is a whole heap more powerful and than their previous stuff. Vancouver is just a fucking breeding ground for awesome bands and BNU have just joined the list. Diddley Squat kicks from start to finish in a blistering barrage of thumping drums, mercurial guitars, complimentary bass and in your face vocals. There's some admirable tracks like Guns For Everyone, Thick Skull, Crack and So Proud of You on here and the guitar work is excellent though the 4.58 mins of nothing on track 12 does seem a little strange. Anyway Brand New Unit are certainly here and are no longer the new kids on the block, so experience their power punk now you'll not regret it.

BRASSY - Bonus Beats EP CD (Wiiija)
I really like this, this is different, Brassy have the knack of being able to take the Lo-Fi sound and mix it up with a very early punky riffs that have a very catchy pub pop 'n' roll feel to them. Great vocals which shift and alter all over the place and make Brassy's sound come alive. Very catchy and full of enough twists to keep your interest and wet your appetite for more.

1 BROCCOLI - Chestnut Road SE27 EP 7" (Crackle Records, 22 Manor Drive, Halifax, HX3 0DU, UK)
More top tunes from Broccoli the title track being taken from their album on Rugger Bugger. The next two are just as great with an early China Drum feel and the final track is a nice Joy Division sounding instrumental. Great EP and smart cover design.

BUFFALO TOM - Knot In It CDS (Beggars Banquet)
This is listenable enough but just sounds too much like safe US college rock like the Rembrants.

BUFFALO TOM - Smitten CD (Beggars Banquet)
12 tracks of poppy acoustic sounding college rock that is OK but sounds no different from anything else of its ilk. Very mellow and laid back the sort of thing you could wind a long night down with. Just too nice, it needs some balls behind it.

THE BULEMICS - Old Enough To Know Better… CD (Junk Records)
The Bulemics come from Texas where they kill people for breakfast, shag sheep for dinner and assassinate Presidents for a giggle (or was that the CIA ?!). Anyway the Bulemics are an intense punk outfit that give out the vibes of a band on the edge of sanity something which along with their music brought to mind the awesome classic US punkers the Germs. In fact this could be the Germs only with a little more pace. This is nihilism at its worst and there's something that makes you feel uneasy and that is part of the attraction to this band, they create tension. Every track is class and it makes the Misfits sound like the Rocky Horror Picture Show.

CAUSTIC SODA - Female Violence EP 7" (Crackle Records)
Crackle spread their wings to Oz and Caustic Soda who reside in Victoria and grace this slab of wax. 4 cracking tracks that hit somewhere between old Oz punkers Vicious Circle (also from Victoria)
and Jawbreaker. Excellent up tempo fire and Shuffle & Scrape is a particularly cool ditty. Buy or get your fingers burnt!

NOAM CHOMSKY - Class War CD (Epitaph)
Highly renowned in his field Prof. Noam Chomsky is an articulate, thought provoking public speaker and lecturer that attacks the very fabric of US society. This CD comes from the series of speeches that AK Press has released and is from his "Attack on The Working People" speech. It is an interesting piece on the corporate view of the workforce and how to undermine it and the systematic reduction of worker rights in the pursuit of increased profit. There's some very interesting issue raised here, the problem is that on this CD he doesn't make suggestions or seek to find a solution to prevent this decline and therefore only serves as an interesting thought provoker that you can file under reference.

CHOPPER - Last Call For The Dancers CD (Crackle Records)
By far the best Chopper release ever. This is Chopper's debut album and sees the gang in fine form playing some great melodic punk with soaring choruses and unified backing. Lom is a great track, I love the way it just carries a great hook from start to finish. Did You Hear That is also superb in a power pop explosion with a simple blinding chorus. Unfortunately this is Chopper's last call as they split up after this release - what a shame - but all good things must come to an end and what a way to make their exit - go out on top that's what I say and Chopper certainly have done that.

CITIZEN FISH - Active Ingredients CD (Bluurg Records, 2 Victoria Terrace, Melksham, Wilts, SN12 6NA, UK)
Oh yes, Citizen Fish deliver a brand new album that is absolutely fantastic. The Suhumans reunion tour has made its obvious mark on this release as a lot of tracks on here have that feel with more punkier tunes aswell as the usual Citizen Fish ska-punk fare. Dick is spot on as usual with excellent lyrics about Tree Protest and environmental concerns, BSE, plus some about the need to relax and taking a look at the end product of anger and hate and how we stick to what we know. This is a brilliant album and is full of catchy, interesting songs that I can listen to all day and night. Includes the excellent 7" track Habit with its brass sections. This is active and the Fish are the only ingredient you need for your aural hunger. What's more it will only cost you a mere £7.10 for the CD and £6.50 for the LP and that includes your postage (Cheques to: R. Lucas) - what are you waiting for…

COMMON RIDER - Last Wave Rockers CD (Lookout Records)
Well, well, well this is a blast from the past Jesse Michaels who was singer in the now legendary Operation Ivy is back with Common Rider. This album is a lot smoother than Op Ivy and pays more influence to Reggae, Ska and a little punk. His voice has also improved ten fold and has a faint country twang to it that works. Rise or Fall reminds me of the Subhumans (UK)
in a strange kind of way and Walk Down The River is a sheer delight. This whole album is full of great songs that are bubbly and energetic, this is a must for all Op Ivy fans and anyone who wants to hear some great music that has a cool groove and guarantees to make your toe tap.

CONE - Smile For Me EP 7" (Crackle Records)
Cone sound rough and the vocals are raw and what's more I love it. Great melodic up tempo punk from that Yorkshire backwater affectionately known as 'Wakey'. The title track is a corker as is Blackpool and these ditties all possess an oi-punk feel in the vocals that sort of reminds me of Jimmy Pursey, for some reason. Cone are a great band and this EP rocks.

COWBOY KILLERS - Thank You, Fuck You and Good Night CD (Rejected Records)
This great album finally makes it onto CD after originally being due to come out on TJ Records. We originally reviewed the advance tape of this cool releases back in Issue 10. Sporting a rather fetching cover of Elvis Presley shaking hands with Nixon, Beddis and the gang deliver a cool album of the CKs fine full throttle intense punk with those distinctive Jello Biafra style vocals. This is an absolute corker of an album and I'm glad to see it properly released now. £8 ppd in UK cheques to: S&M Records from CKs, 31 Kensington Place, Newport, NP9 8PG, UK

COYOTE MEN - The Coyote Men Vs El Mundo CD (Estrus Records)
An All In Wrestling bout of garage style rock n roll that verges on Psychobilly and punk with a full nelson of raw attitude and ball breaking guitar power. The Coyote Men, which sounds like a tag team in any case, take you 21 rounds with this CD which compiles a double 7" from last year plus their out of print debut album Headin' For trouble and the Primitive Urge 7". This is great rockin' stuff that has you in submission within the first track and leaves you bleeding and beaten from a drop kick to the jaw. There's a rabbit punch around every corner and there's no hope of a sleeper as the unrelenting Coyote Men deliver the punishment consistently through this CD - great stuff from this Newcastle outfit.

DAGOBAH - The Garage Is Off Limits EP 7" (Crackle Records)
Grabbing your attention on first looks is the totally cool caricatures of the band on the cover art, top stuff. Anyway the Star Wars punkers once again treat us to 4 raw edged pop ditties that make you grin and pogo simultaneously. With cool titles like Wise As A Wookie, Dagobah just know how to set the scene for a jump into hyperspace and a sampling of the force - beer force!

DE HEIRDEROOSJES - Smile… You're CD (Epitaph)
Dutch punk protagonists De Heideroosjes - boy is that a mouthful - have been cranking it up for nearly 10 years and this is a compilation of some of their excellent tracks from 4 albums which have been re-recorded as Smile… You're Dying. Nice angry vocals which remind me of Attitude Adjustment and a catchy punky style that harks back to the early 90s. Top stuff.

THE DESTRUCTOS - Self Destruct EP 7" (Self Destruct Recordings)
Following up their excellent demo these Scott's punkers who play top melodic punk deliver a class 5 tracker than will make you whoop with joy. Great slogan 'Anthems for the Socially Retarded' and the Destructos are one fine fucking band. Great catchy songs so just get this self financed release and join the socially retarded in a self destructive celebration of cool sounds.

THE DICKIES - Stukas Over Disneyland CD (Overground)
This re-issue is a sheer classic and was originally released by the Dickies as a mini album on their own label back in1983. Followed by a subsequent re-release on Restless in 1988 with extra tracks before its current release on the UK's Overground label in its original form. Containing all the usual humorous style of the member group, Stukas features such classics as If Stuart Could Talk, Communication Breakdown, Wagon Train, She's A Hunchback, Pretty Please Me, Rosemary etc. It's good to see this out again and available to a fresh new audience who can enjoy this class US band.

DIGGER - The Promise Of An Uncertain Future CD (Hopeless Records)
I love this, Digger are one hell of a cool band, musically they hit the spot with an array of finely honed ditties that are so catchy. Very melodic punk with some nice arrangements in a 3 meets Game Face illicit love liaison. 14 dynamic numbers that should have any self respecting person going mental too. Great photo on the cover of this cool album too. Dig or die!

DILLINGER FOUR - Midwestern Songs of The Americas CD (Hopeless Records)
Wow, this is great - raw attitudinal punk with dual vocals. Dillinger Four deliver their songs with a pile driver right between your eyes and the songs have a very different feel especially the way the vocals are arranged. What's more their lyrics are really cool. Midwestern Songs of The Americas is a fucking excellent release. Do yourself a favour an get Dillinger Foured.

DOA - Festival of Atheists CD (Sudden Death Records/Golf Records)
Yeah, yeah and thrice yeah! This album is absolutely fantastic and every track is a winner. Despite losing Wimpy Roy from the band, DOA still remain and here they produce a more structured and melodic album than previous releases. From the opening lines of You Won't Stand Alone - "...Time to make a stand, time to have our say, don't buckle under, get in the way..." Festival of Atheists cranks into a pure adrenaline rush of class ditties that makes you feel proud to be punk. There's a great variety of tracks too from the white reggae of Death To The Multi-Nationals to the melodious Worlds Fall Apart and You Can't Walk all Over Me and the Country & Western sounding Frontier Justice. There's also the typical DOA sound of Mommy Mommy and If There's God. The Canadian version of the CD is an interactive CD ROM, but Golf didn't bother with that here in the UK so you just get the audio tracks. What ever, this album is first class and a festival of great songs and intelligent lyrics from this time served, well broiled band.

DOA - The Lost Tapes CD (Sudden Death Records/Golf Records)
DOA always were and are one cool fucking band and this compilation of lost sessions is a sheer delight and sees DOA in its infancy as a raw as fuck punk outfit. It sees some classic recordings of tracks like Race Riot, Our World, Dangerman, Liar For Hire, I Hate You and America The Beautiful along with some never released and part wiped tracks. Great liner notes and family tree too.

DOG PISS - Eine Kliene P ü n k m ü s ic CD (Honest Dons)
Despite the German title, Dog Piss (what a name I ask you?)
are most definitely from Blighty. Dog Piss are the latest band from ex Snuff and Guns and Wankers bods. 13 excellent tracks of pop meets punk meets heavy metal before having a big slurpy snog with the Beatles. Strange ? No not really just fine songs with a difference which is always nice to see and Dog Piss do the business... erm I mean they're top tiddle!

DOOM - Peel Sessions CD (Discipline/Vinyl Japan)
Like the ENT sessions its good to see these available as my tape versions are getting a little old and knackered now. Doom were a class band that were the original of what became the now Dis-type bands and that made them unique. What made Doom stand out was their gruff vocals with a Discharge guitar backdrop and simple short politically motivated lyrics which were to the point. This has all the cool Doom numbers like Circles, Multinationals, War Crimes, Means To An End and Bury The Debt. 17 tracks in all, great recording and covers their Peaceville releases. Great to hear this again.

THE DONNAS - Get Skintight CD (Lookout Records)
This is 70s style New Wave with rock cum Glam sleaze overtones, sort of like an all girl version of the New York Dolls, Dead Boys or Eddie & The Hot Rods and sort of similar to the Runaways. Using the basic 3 chord rock 'n' roll riffola these teeny bops churn out some pretty darn good tunage that's catchy too. With songs about boys, sex and all that kind of bubble gum stuff these tracks are bursting to be blasted out in the open air this summer.

DREAM CITY FILM CLUB - Billy Chic EP CD (Beggars Banquet Records)
What has happened to DCFC the laid back Doors sounds has gone and been replaced with a neo-Iggy Pop sound that would have the old timer himself whirling around the stage twisted up in mic leads and blood.

DREAM CITY FILM CLUB - In The Cold Light of Morning CD (Beggars Banquet Records)
More intense Doors meets Iggy Pop in a swirling album of strange tunes and distorted lullabies. With tracks like Fuck It Up, Billy Chic and Stooge there's enough early and later 70s style pick 'n' mix to feed your insanity.

DREAM CITY FILM CLUB - Nerveshot 7" (Beggars Banquet Records)
The second release by DCFC from their excellent new album In The Cold Light of Morning. On virginal white vinyl this Iggy sounding insanity is enough to tip you over the edge at any point. Shoot my nerves baby!

THE DROPKICK MURPHYS - The Gang's All Here CD (Hell Cat Records)
Well the Dropkicks return with a new singer, the other one couldn't hack the touring apparently. Anyway I moaned last time about their lyrics on Do or Die and this time they are not as irritating and at least deal with American history rather than a country a fair number of miles away. The music has become slightly more chunkier too and not as SLF-ish, in fact it has more in common with some of the UK Oi/Punk bands of the 80s like The Business and Abrasive Wheels. 16 tracks and a real irritating string of answering phone messages at the end to use up the CD. Loved the sounds, still not sure about the band maybe I'll be convinced next time.

DROPNOSE - Creamy & Uncommonly Good EP CD (Deliverance Records £2 from: 45 Harold Road, Leeds, LS6 1PR, UK)
3 crackin' full on US influenced hardcore punk tracks that brings to mind later day 59 Times The Pain and H20. Hailing from Leeds, Dropnose are a fine outfit producing some cool lively sounds and are looking for gigs - so get in touch these guys rip.

EMERGENCY - S/T EP CD (Emergency, 2 Lincoln Road, Maidenhead, Berks, SL6 5HP, UK)
New one on me this, Emergency are a bit like the Buzzcocks meets Bauhaus before being wrapped up in a feel of the Damned. Very catchy and 4 songs that I really did like. Look forward to hearing a lot more from these guys.

ENSIGN - Cast The First Stone CD (Nitro Records)
Pretty average NYHC stalecore in the vein of Judge, old Sick of It All et al. Nothing spectacular, same old song times 16.

EX CATHEDRA - Anaesthetized CDEP (Self Destruct Recordings)
This opens with a beautiful white reggae number Truth In Flight that brings to mind a cross between the Clash and the Blaggers. Great Sax (yeah sax not sex dummy!)
great song - love it! Next up is a more pacier punk ditty that reminds me of Oi Polloi - full of attitude and rips along like a good punk number should. The third track returns to that Sax and a little skanking number that wouldn't be out of place on a Citizen Fish disc and is bouncy and has a nice fast mid 8. The final track on this CD is a speedy tuneful punk number Betrayed with a great bass line and guitar licks. Great variety in songs and songwriting this EP is class and I love it to bits Ex Cathedra are top and I didn't need any anaesthesia

EXTREME NOISE TERROR - Peel Sessions CD (Discipline/Vinyl Japan)
Oh this brings back memories in fact I think I still have the tapes of these sessions that I used to sit up and to tape in the late 80s. Later released on Strange Fruit, ENT were along with Napalm Death some of the first UK pioneers of this extreme form of hardcore and this stills rips now. Duelling screaming vocals from Dean, Phil and the gang make a consistent fusion between Disorder, Discharge and increase the speed to 1000 mph. Class ditties like Carry on Screaming, Conned Through Life, Another Nail in The Coffin and Bullshit Propaganda plus a Cockney Reject's cover deliver the goods for some top earslaughter.

THE FEDS - Classified EP 7" (Dr Strange)
Ooh, lovely green marble vinyl - very pretty. Further more The Feds are a shit hot band, fast and furious is the name of the game and no sooner has the stylus hit the green platter than this little 7"er is over. 3 awesome cuts of top punkola that brings to mind the Flower Leperds, only problem is that I'm left gagging for more.

FRUIT EATING BEARS - Gentle Creatures, Despite Their Fierce Appearance CD (Overground)
Another sift back through time and Overground find another rare little known UK early punk outfit. The Fruit Eating Bears played support to many famous UK outfits like the Clash, Damned, Adverts, Slaughter & the Dogs, and John Oatway. Sounding similar to the early Stranglers meets XTC and the Rubinoos with a real R&B rocking feel to them. This massive 32 track disc is made up of studio and live recordings and sees this in good stead for a fine historical document of a great band that split up in 1978. Ironically the band unbeknown to them were entered into the UK's competition to find a song for the Eurovision Song Contest by their publisher and Door In My Face was chosen as one of twelve finalists. Refusing to wear make up or stage clothes at the Royal Albert Hall the band came joint last and compare Terry Wogan made the comment that is the title of this CD. Great stuff.

FOUR LETTER WORD - Do You Feel Lucky Punk 7" (BYO Records)
Top Welsh punks return with a single from their mighty debut album. As with the album the title track is cool and the flip sees an unreleased number in the form of Access Denied which is also a great little track. Great UK stuff on BYO. So as Clint would say pointing a Magnum in your face "Do you feel lucky punk ?"

THE FUMES - Pure Bad luck CD (Scooch Pooch Records)
The Fumes don't half smoke up some action and Pure Bad Luck starts by lighting the fuse with Pearl Driver which blew me over. This is sort of intense power punk 'n' roll that draws from the sounds of Motorhead, Lazy Cowgirls and MC5s in one burning fire that's relentless in its task. Fantastic, get a whiff of The Fumes and take a high that's pure good luck not bad at all.

FUNGUS - I'd Rather Be A Doll 7" (CE22 Records)
Fungus are harmless as the Hitch Hiker's Guide To The Galaxy would say. Sounding like Wheezer, Wannadies, etc this band play harmless indie with an 'alternative' edge. It's not ground breaking but easy enough to listen to though the B side is a little bit whiney and irritating.

GAMEFACE - Cupcakes EP 7" (Dr Strange Records)
Cooking up a fine recipe of sweet tasting melodic punk rock, top US outfit Gameface grace our turntables once again with 3 tracks on this EP. The title track and Only Souvenir are joyous ditties of emotional vocals and crashing guitars. Gameface seems to have a poppier edge these days and you also get a Psychedelic Furs cover (House) providing a cherry on the top of this delicious cake.

GOOBER PATROL - The Unbearable Lightness of Being Drunk CD (Thems Good/Fat Wreck Chords)
The fluffy Goobers folk unleash another album that's full on, cranked up to 10, non stop punk rawk! I love the lyrics on here, great observations especially the class melodic Part Time S.F. Ecologist. I'm really into the Goobers rasping vocals, their fuzzy guitars and their boundless energy - great stuff from a class UK outfit. Time to get plastered then...

THE GOTOHELLS - Burning Bridges CD (Vagrant Records)
Raw garage punk rock and goddamn roll, man… This rocks out big style with a slurry vocal and a laid back solid beat. Florida's Gotohells take you on a drunken rampage through sleazy back alleys and play pub rock sounding ditties that make your pissed feet pound the floor even when your laid flat out on your face on top of it. 12 tracks to burn out to… pass the Johnny Walker's baby.

GRISWOLD - Let's Pretend We're Gay EP CD (Smile Records)
Well it's been a while since we heard from this Belfast outfit and their latest offering is a CDEP on Smile Records entitled Let's Pretend We're Gay. Griswold not to be confused with Griswald are no longer as Ramones as before they have a more Crimpshrine feel about them and the 4 tracks on here are a sheer joy. Very melodic and catchy plus a fine cover of I'll Take Love.

GROOP DOGDRILL - Personal 7" (Mantra)
Following up to Half Nelson the mighty earslaughter of Groop Dogdrill is here once again with a track from the aforementioned album and on green wax too. There's also two new numbers, the disjointed, disturbing Mudhoney sounding Hoboken Thing and the intense Cramps deviation of Hedley Hadley.

GUTTERMOUTH - Gorgeous CD (Nitro)
Well obnoxious central are back with new members and this is probably the best I've heard Guttermouth, who quite frankly before were a little bit average. This has some fine tracks and has a 80s US punk feel to it that I really like. Lyrically Guttermouth are a humour band and as a result they'll never make you think but the music is what is the main interest point on this album and that rocks, Fine stuff in an Adolescents cum DI fashion.

GUTTERMOUTH - Live From The Pharmacy CD (Nitro)
Great packaging with your pretend hypodermic rattling around in the clear casing and a cool pic of a guys smoking about a100 fags all at once. So on with the actual disc, recorded live (I bet you hadn't guessed that !) in the Summer of 1994 and is fast and furious punk. 16 tracks in all make up this live release plus there's some studio tracks throw in too which are a little basic. Nothing spectacular all in all.

H2O - Ever Ready EP CD (Epitaph)
Taken from their excellent Thicker Than Water album the title track is a blasting ditty that Gorilla Biscuits would have been proud of. The remaining 3 tracks are live in DC and include a fine cover of Friend by the mighty DC outfit Marginal Man.

H2O - FTTW CD (Epitaph)
Well I'm not going to get into what the title stands for as it's one of those "Its what it means to you" kind of things. Anyway H2O are back with a cracking new album that will blow you away, it certainly did me. This is full of energy, attitude, cool duelling vocals and a sound not dissimilar from the mighty Gorilla Biscuits or Civ and at times early Down by Law. Great melody and fine thumping tunes all hammered home by a driving hardcore backbeat. I raise my pint of water to its chemical symbol, great album.

HEAVYWEIGHT CHAMPION - That's How She Woke Up CD (Undisputed Records, Marsh Barn, Manningtree, CO11 1QJ, UK. £3 inc post Chq to: Jellyset)
This is released on a totally independent record label that is trying to make an impact in a very multinational led music industry - all power to you guys. This release is not the usual type of stuff that we get here at HH but Heavyweight Champion are a bunch of very adept musicians. Sounding like they have a mellow Morrissey on vocals and with a laid back flowing pop sound that would stand out in many indie pop circles. It Rained On The Righteous has a nice reggae feel to it which is particularly good. Not really my cup of char but certainly at the top of its respective pile.

THE HIVES - AKA I.D.I.O.T. CD (Burning Heart Records)
This raw energy spewing band of 50s and 60s misfits make up the tight and slightly disturbing sounding Hives. With overtones of the early punk years the Hives hurtle their influences through 20 years past and forward to the excellent ditties that make up this 5 track disc. Aka I.D.I.O.T. - aka incredibly dynamic interesting outrageous tunes!

JOHN HOLMES - El Louso Suavo CD (Devil Rock/Flat Earth Records)
This is Bri's (our Darkside HC contributor)
new band John Holmes which is out of the embers of Manfat and features Sned (Generic and a whole host of other bands and purveyor of hard music via Flat Earth)
. So this promises to be a bit of an awesome collaboration and the impressive digi-pack is a good start. The first thing that grabs me about this is the intense feeling of out of control that accompanies the whole album - that I like and this is a fine album of powerful, creative metallic hardcore. 10 tracks of mind bending dark hardcore to send your brain into Dante's Fire.

LIAM HOWLETT - The Dirtchamber Sessions Vol 1 CD (XL Recordings)
This is the Prodigy guy doing a bunch of mixes of other folk's songs in a DJ session. This isn't too bad and in places it's really cool it kind of encompasses Howlett's musical diversity and influences. Featuring sounds of Sex Pistols, Medicine, Primal Scream, Chemical Brothers, The Charlatans, Jane's Addiction, Prodigy, Beastie Boys, Herbie Hancock, Propeller Heads, Fat Boy Slim and others. Nice packaging which I nearly bust on opening because I don't read instructions!

JACK - The Jazz Age CD (Too Pure)
Once again Jack play some very nice orchestrated ditties with a Damned (Anything era)
cum Echo and The Bunnymen and Pulp feel. Containing the single Lolita Elle released a while back, the vocals are excellent and they even manage to crank it up a little ending up sounding somewhere between the Wonder Stuff, Beck and Pulp. This is a decent enough album if a little too safe with its pop sensibilities to meet commercial success requirements.

J CHURCH - Cat Food CD (Damaged Goods)
Cat Food is the new album from J Church and the first track features a bunch of kids (or fast adult voices)
singing backing. This band seem to write songs like people have hot dinners and their output is nothing short of exceptional. This album sees J Church deliver 12 tracks of pop edged tuneage that tastes better than ever. This has a whole heap of variety to keep your interest and they've played in the studio with the tracks to add a new dimension to some songs which is cool. Well you know the score this band are legendary for their tunes, what are you waiting for ?

J CHURCH - Turn To Stone 7" (Damaged Goods)
J Church's precursor to their new album due out soon on Damaged Goods. Here the Church pop it out with some ELO covers and a track from their forthcoming album.

JOE 90 - Short On Ideas EP 7" (Bombed Out Records, PO BOX 17, Leeds, LS8 1UP,UK)
Leeds based pop punk outfit with a Gerry Anderson TV show name - do you remember that geek with the glasses (based on Russ Remains you know!). Anyway this is a 5 track EP which is a bit rough and ready in the recording department but the songs are tuneful enough sort like early Gan stuff. Not outstanding, not mind blowing but decent enough to bop to and the sleeve artwork is really cool. I expect that the Joe 90 guys will only improve and begin to define their own style in a couple of releases time.

JOHN COUGAR CONCENTRATION CAMP - Interstate 8 West 7" (BYO Records)
Two tracks from JCCC, the title track being a mid-paced plodder which is OK though not spectacular. While the flip is more promising with a more up beat number but this single just sounds a little lack lustre which is unlike them and just isn't as impressive as their other stuff.

JOHN COUGAR CONCENTRATION CAMP - Melon CD (BYO Records)
JCCC deliver their third full lengther and second for BYO, Melon is a fast paced punk rock extravaganza of tasty melodic tunes and snotty raw vocals. This album is so cool and it just drives home with a great pumping backbeat and the catchiest ditties around. Filled with humour there's no doubt that JCCC deliver the goods and with songs like Punk Rock Gives Me The Shitz and Tougher Than Leather you can't go wrong. Best served with a cherries for breakfast. Great stuff.

JON THE POSTMAN - Puerile CD (Overground)
In terms of showing the spirit of punk in its early incarnations this is perfect as it takes to the extreme of anyone can get up on stage and have a go. Only Jon The Postman is a lousy listen, you can appreciate the point he made in Manchester, but what an awful CD - "puerile" is a very apt title.

KODIAK - S/T CD (One Louder Records)
It's good to see Kodiak's debut album out following on from their two excellent 7"ers. Newcastle's unique rockin' band fuses a hybrid Fugazi meets Sonic Youth before swallowing the boot of Green River, very powerful in a pop kind of way and yet highly intense in a emotional aural attack of catchy melodic punky sounds. This really grabs you by the balls and drags you kicking and screaming into a tumultuous world of driving rhythms, sharp edged guitars, thundering bass and soaring vocals. Is it a bird, is it a camera no it's Kodiak - crank the vol up to ten and absorb yourself into the deluge of addictive sounds and join me in adulation of one of the UK's finest outfits. Avoid at your peril.

LA DONNAS - Rock You All Night Long CD (Scooch Pooch)
Looking like a younger version of the Dickies and sounding like a hybrid son of the Germs and the Boys. La Donnas are a rockin' outfit that play hard reside in Denver and deliver a mighty blast of raw unadulterated power and cool guitar tuneage. 10 tracks here to blow your pants to bits and give your ears a good seeing to, there's no trade's description problems here this record actually does what is says on the cover - La Donnas, rock you all night long - too fucking right!

LAGWAGON - Let's Talk About Feelings Adv Tape/CD (Fat Wreck Chords)
The 'Wagon are back with another offering on the label of Fatness. This album possess great artwork and the musical content is just as appealing. Variety is the name of the game and this has all manner of fine ditties that twist and jump about bringing back the cool tunes of their early releases, something deeply lacking on there last effort. I love this album and aswell as the 11 great tracks on here there's a brilliant cover of Agent Orange's superb classic tune Everything Turns Grey. You don't need an excuse to buy this just go to it - excellent stuff.

MARK LANEGAN - Stay CDEP (Beggars Banquet Records)
This guy has a great voice and this middle of the road slow acoustic Irish sounding music sounds like he's spent most of the recording session toking in the pool room and did very little for me.

LIBERTY 37 - Stuffed CDEP (Beggars Banquet Records)
I first came by Liberty 37 by virtue of the fine Org Records CD singles club thing. I was well into the title track on that disc as Liberty 37 had a great Fugazi feel and raw edge about them. But this new EP is a totally different fish - it is dire, watered down, indie pop bland and un emotive. It's like you've met a cross roads and headed off down the wrong road. I find this sad as No Beauty had great promise.

LLAMA FARMERS - Big Wheels CDS (Beggars Banquet)
Reviewing these arse about face this single came out before the album but the title track is taken from the album Dead Letter Chorus so all the stuff I said about that follows here, see below.

LLAMA FARMERS - Dead Letter Chorus CD (Beggars Banquet)
Take the Honeycrack and kick them in the balls with Superchuck and then kiss it all better with the Lemonheads. That to me is what this sounds like and with fleeting moments of Sonic Youth the Llama Farmers (what an awful name) do have a very commercial sound to them that still does retain something that I liked. I expect this band will be big NME lovvies but still they are pretty interesting and offer enough difference to stand out above some of the shit that's out there.

LLAMA FARMERS - Get The Keys And Go CDS (Beggars Banquet)
The title track is also from the above album so ditto the above. But also on this single is a great track Ice Lungs which has a really cool and powerful punky feel about it. Great stuff it should have been the title track of this single rather than the rather limp Get The Keys And Go.

LOOKING UP - Got Another Answer ? CD (Epitaph)
Do we really need another ska-punk band ? Well the folks at Epi-central seem to think so and Looking Up are the result. Take the Voodoo Glowskulls but with a more punk slant and a marvellous sax to fill out the sound. Looking Up should be very popular even though they're a touch like every other ska-punk band out there. Catchy enough though.

LONG FELLOW - And So On… CD (Kung Fu Records)
Another Californian band that have a melodic punk sound but this band are a little different in that at times they bound off into the field of the Who with the feel of very early Green Day and edges of Jawbreaker. Very up tempo and bouncy punky numbers grace this CD and Long Fellow do just enough to hold your interest with the 14 tracks on here. There's some nice mixtures of guitar work that does create a fine wall of textures to their sound it's a shame the bass sounds so farty it could do with beefing up a bit. But other than that a damn fine release.

MAD CADDIES - Duck and Cover CD (Fat Wreck Chords)
Taking the old time feel of the swing and jazz, the Mad Caddies add overdrive, a cracking punk rock energy and some ska to make this old up tempo sound come hurling through the decades to the present. This album is full of interestingly varied tunes that are very catchy and fun.

MANIACS - So Far… So Loud CD (Overground)
This is just no good Overground keep releasing all these real cool old bands that keep sad old punks like me happy. For the uninitiated the Maniacs surfaced around 1977 and like many other bands had a short sharp shock life in their punk careers imploding in 1978. The 3 chord veterans really do epitomise the era and tracks like their 7" Chelsea '77,and its B side Ain't No Legend plus Me and You and I Ain't Gonna Be History really capture the cool energy that came out of a dull music scene that needed a fucking good kick up the arse and told the kids you can do it - Fuck Pop stars! Strangely the Maniacs also had a feel of the Oi sound that can be likened to fellow punk old timers Cock Sparrer. After their split the ex members remained active in music one joined the Adverts, one the Damned and one songwriting for the Eurythmics and Robert Palmer. This sounds just as alive now as it did back then - great document including some unreleased tracks.

MAN OR ASTROMAN ? - Deus Ex Machina 7" (Touch & Go Records)
The mighty Man or Astroman write a theme song for T&G's motor cycle racing team ?!!! Well that's what the press release said, honest. That aside there's two cuts on here that merge on a surf come 60s TV spy show theme kind of affair that sounds way cool. So all I can do is love this and the packaging and wave my chequered flag in triumph of a top disc.

ME FIRST & THE GIMME GIMMES - Are A Drag CD (Fat Wreck Chords)
After Have A Ball the Fat Pack as they've coined themselves after Frankie, Dean and Sammy's decadent brotherhood of the 50s and 60s buggered off to play with their respective other bands. That was before the call of the bright lights, the glitz, Broadway and the sounds of Lloyd-Webber! As the cover meisters, Me First & The Gimme Gimmes, return with an excellent new album Are A Drag. Which is a fine collection of songs from the musicals like Phantom of the Opera, Cabaret, Prom Night, Favourite Things, Tomorrow and the like, all played in the Gimmes' unique fashion. Absolutely marvellous, luvvie!!!

MENACE - Society Still Insane EP 12" (Vinyl Japan)
This old classic band who came from the initial wave of punk way back in the 70s and now are back at it. The title track is a new number in a 'street' Oi/punk vein which is very cool and Business like. The 3 remaining tracks consist of two tracks one from each of their first two singles in those heady days. plus there's a cover of The Young Ones. Great 12" full on attitude and the band can still crack it 20+ years on.

MILLION SIX - Clean-Head CD (Satellite Records)
21 tracks of pretty average punk rock that from time to time shows promise of a really good Husker Du track and then fails to deliver. Many of the tracks on here are the same in arrangement and style and this really lacks variety.

MILLENCOLIN - The Melancholy Collection CD (Burning Heart Records)
A collection of their first two singles plus the B sides to their singles and compilation tracks that have all been released before so there's nothing really new on here to interest me. But if you missed out on the 7"s then this is probably worth having as there's some great tracks on here plus a handful of covers.

MUCHO MACHO - The Limehouse Link and The Airport Freeze EP CDs (Wiiija)
Both the album and single from the album sound like a 60s TV theme tune given the Bentley Rhythm Ace treatment only no where near as good. Sure it will be big in the clubs - good to dance to I suspect but not just to listening to, it's too repetitious but some nice drum sounds all the same.

MUKI - Cabin Fever CD (Mantra Records)
Atmospheric trip-hop that has the feeling of space and water at the same time. Very nice and best played just before you go to sleep to ensure a good night's kip or when very stoned.

MUSTARD PLUG - Pray For Mojo CD (Hopeless Records)
Hot sauce with a skanking edge this 6 piece dance till you drop troupe know how to get your feet moving with that up stroke guitar and fluent brass section. Oh yeah this really is hot and you break into a sweat just listening to it, recorded at the infamous Blasting Room this kicks ass big time. You either love or hate ska and I just love it. This is pure unadulterated ska as it should be, 12 rocking tracks brimming with energy and positive vibes - so plug your ears into the marvellous sounds of the Mustard Plug.

MY PAL TRIGGER - Lessons In Social History CD (Kat Rec, PO Box 460692,Escondido, CA 92046, USA)
My Pal Trigger remind me a little of Painted Thin for some reason and they play an off kilter emo type of hardcore with dead pan vocals. There are 7 tracks on here to indulge you and all have a slightly melancholic disturbed feel to them, decent enough album if a little similar from time to time.

NEW BOMB TURKS - Raw Law EP CD (Epitaph)
The New Bomb Turks return with a new rocking EP of raw sounding tracks live at VPRO Radio studios in Amsterdam that are as cool as you like. These suckers crank it up and rev your engine with some of the finest ditties you could wish for I love the backing vocals on the title track which is a real Stones sounding number. The remaining tracks So Long Silver Lining, Hammerless Nail and Tail Crush are more typical Bomb Turks tracks and rock big style. Raw, live and energy spewing the New Bomb Turks are simply cool and you don't need to know anymore than that.

THE NOBODYS - Generation XXX CD (Hopeless Records)
When you listen to the Nobodys they come across as a really cool sounding raw and in your face punk combo. But that's just the surface because underneath these nobodies from Colorado Springs write hateful misogynistic lyrics that are full of shit and I guess that they think are punk because they are singing about how they are going to fuck all you lucky people. But I think I'll let these guys speak for themselves with their lyrics to Just Another Cunt "…You ain't nothing but a piece of meat…You make me sick…". Their songs say it all for me Give It A Rest, Ain't Too Cool and The Jerk. Remember boys those that brag the most are usually also working the hardest slapping their salami - the backliner and photo CD of your porno mags and vids collection just ain't impressing anyone but yourselves.

NO MOTIV - And The Sadness Prevails CD (Vagrant Records)
No Motiv deliver a 11 track album full of melancholic harmonious emo that is fantastic. Minor chords run rife as these guitars blast out some catchy tunes that make you smile, cry and then smile again from the cutting So What to the powerful intoxicating multi-layered guitars and sad vocals of Stay. There's a sense of Husker Du in this album just check out those guitars on the awesome final track Shells. I love this, it oozes feeling - if that frightens you steer clear. Great album giving you've plenty of motive to go out and get this exceptional slab of emotion.

NO MOTIV/NUCLEAR SUNDAY - Split EP CD (Vagrant Records)
No Motiv team up with Nuclear Sunday to make this split EP. First up is No Motiv who are one hell of a band that treat us to a two melancholic cuts of melodic punk that is simply awesome - Check these guys out. Nuclear Sunday also provide two tracks of equal merit but in a more in your face 80s punk style, hailing from Atlanta, NS play hard driving rhythms that bring to mind the like of Farside. Great split release with two cool bands.

THE OFFSPRING - Americana CD (Columbia Records)
The children of Columbia - Noodles and the gang - are making a BIG name for themselves these days attaining that much coveted Number 1 spot on Top of the Pops (?!)
with Pretty Fly. Well OK I know you're cringing, but I'd rather see Offspring there than Celine fucking Dione, anyway enough diatribe on with the review. Actually I do quite like this whether it be corporate or not the Clash's old label Columbia must be pretty pleased with themselves on their signing. Americana is decent enough bar a couple of tracks which are a bit duff. This release sees typical Offspring stuff but there's some tracks that harks back to that classic album Ignition namely The Kids Aren't Alright - the best song for me. There's also a fine cover of Barbara Striesand's Feelings. 13 tracks and one hidden track (Yawn!) and a pretty cool release what ever you think about the label.

THE OFFSPRING - Pretty Fly CDS (Columbia Records)
Well this just proves along with the other single that Columbia has released off Americana that some people have no taste. Out of an album of fairly cool tracks they pick the two worst numbers on the whole album, but I guess this and Why Don't You Get A Job are the two most commercially viable releases and that's their job after all. Also it did get to number 1…. so that proves it's great, doesn't it ?!!!!

OFF TARGET - Follow EP CD (Off Target, 43 Weavers Hill, Fullerslade, Milton Keynes, MK11 26N, UK)
Off Target return with a new self released EP, Follow. This does sound a bit different from their previous post punk demos and has a defined Leatherface feel vocally and in some cases musically - this is no bad thing though. After getting over the change in Off Target's sound I really got into this and the title track has hints of old 77 punk outfits while Bosses Son and Searchlight are the two best tracks on here with a very distinctive Leatherface slant. Good disc.

ONE HIT WONDERS - Who The Hell Is CD (Nitro)
Long Beach's one Hit Wonders return with a new album which is another exciting slab of catchy musical punk by numbers. It has to be said that a lot of bands these days especially those State side are beginning to lack creativity and are sticking to a tried and tested formula. One Hit Wonders do fit this mould but at the same time they are pretty good at what they do and the ditties on here are really catchy. Tracks like Whiners and Losers and Four Letter Words are particularly cool and there's a nice cover in there too which everyone will recognise, 14 fun tracks that are good enough to make you tap your toes in approval.

PAINTED THIN - Still They Die of Heartbreak EP CD (Endearing Records)
This combines Painted Thin's Golden Arm Records 7" It Was Love But They Could Never Admit It and the additional 3 songs that they recorded for their 12" on the same label. Painted Thin play a sad sounding brand of melodic punk that reminds me in places of some real early ALL tracks and then of SMASH when they cram a stack of lyrics into one breath. 7 tracks to keep you happy in a sad kind of way!

PANIC - You Smell Like A Brewery EP 7" (Hectic Records)
Great title and how else would you like to smell ? Panic hammer out a great EP here on Hectic, following on from their cool album Gremlin Generation. This for me is the best I've heard Panic, they produce well crafted 3 chord punk rock anthems with a tasteful Ramones touch to raise your glasses, drink and be merry to. This is as cool as fuck and full of attitude so put your hand in your pocket… Nottingham never had it so good.

PENNYWISE - Straight Ahead CD (Epitaph)
No points for originality but Pennywise know how to carry a tune and a catchy one at that. Victim of Reality is a pretty good example with a nice choppy guitar style and Alien is so damn fine - great melody. In fact I'd like to see them do more of this stuff like this. But the sad fact is that despite decent enough lyrics Pennywise stick to a tried and tested formula which means the album comes across as very similar sounding and melts into one except for the odd track. Decent enough in its own right just it sounds so much like many other bands.

PENTHOUSE - Creeper's Reef CD (Beggars Banquet)
Heavy guttural blues that would be happy alongside the likes of many an early Sub Pop band or early Amp Rep release. Nice garage feel to this and the three tracks on here really hit the spot for power blues and intense vocals. Fine stuff.

PIGFISH - Creosote The Baby CD (MMi/Delta Loop)
Featuring bods from Raggity Anne, Lost Souls, Brooklyn Dogs, Dawn After Dark and The Raymonds. Pigfish is as its name suggests a hybrid creation of two blokes' punk record collections from its infancy to the present day. Pigfish are a mighty fine melodic outfit playing punk influenced ditties that show the influences of the simplicity of the Ramones, the melody of the Mega City 4 and the urgency of Stiff Little Fingers and the Adicts. Creosote the Baby features 10 listed and a batch of other hidden tracks that are most enjoyable and have a variety, energy and post punk feel that I really liked.

PINHEAD CIRCUS - Hallmark 7" (BYO Records)
Two great tracks of melodic hardcore from Pinhead Circus. The title ditty drives along with a cool straight ahead hardcore montage while the flip delivers a more pop focused number in My Confession which is a ripper of a track. Top stuff from the folks at BYO.

PINTO - Doughty Road CD (Phoenix Arizona Records)
Well the album that never looked like surfacing, finally arrives a year after being recorded. Grimsby's skate punkers display their debut album with the title being a real street in their fishing port home town. 12 tracks of US influenced skate punk with plenty of energy and flowing harmonies. Well worth the wait and there's some really good tracks on here, very catchy and thoroughly enjoyable.

POINDEXTER & THE PEOPLE FROM PLANET PANCAKE - Beauty is in The Eye of The Beerholder DEMO (Turtle Records, 48 West Park Grove, LS8 2DY, UK)
This is a little weird being a bit like Bob Marley meets the Doors with a South Park character singing. Fuckin' weird shit man… 5 tracks of dubbed out reggae with a 60s Soul feel and including a great cover of Fire - top stuff. Turn on, turn in, drop out… let's get stoned baby!

PULLEY - Working Class Whore CDEP (Epitaph)
This really is the best stuff Pulley have ever done, their previous efforts were pretty average but this has a little bit more about itself. The four tracks on here drive along like a Roller doing 100 mph - smooth, fast and slick as shit. Their songs have been thought about and they stand head and shoulders above their previous albums, this is a great taster for their new album.

QUADRAT JETS - Pay The Deuce CD (Estrus Records)
Crank it up and drive it through with an aural guitar explosion of punkabilly fuelled raw 'n' gutsy rock and goddamn roll that makes up the blasting sound of this 5 piece. The Quadrajets pay homage to the sounds gone by of the MC5s, Johnny Burnett and the modern day garage sounds of the Lazy Cowgirls and the power of Turbonegro. In fact this mad cap bunch that utilise 3 guitars in a wall of fuzzed out ball breaking noise fusion kick up such a racket that can only be defined as their own. 12 tracks rip through your speakers on a diet of high octane speed and Jack Daniels. This album will rock your very foundations and blast you mind.

THE QUEERS - Everything's OK CDEP (Hopeless Records)
Well the Queers have ditched Lookout in favour of Hopeless and this is the product of their first release on Hopeless. This 4 track EP sees the guys blasting out their 3 chord punk-a-pop-a-rama with those oh so familiar harmonies. Cool artwork and a great EP of mid paced tunage.

THE QUEERS - Punk Rock Confidential CD (Hopeless Records)
Following hot on the heels of Everything's OK the Queers produce Punk Rock Confidential. 15 new tracks in the Queers usual Ramones style with the help of Ben Weasel (writing some the songs on here) and Lisa Marr (vocally and lyrically). Easy listening punk that is sure to please nothing original but it sure as hell makes think of Joey, Dee Dee and the like. Covering Manfred Mann's Pretty Flamingo is the oddest cover ever, what's more it works and sounds a heap better than the original. Chalking up17 years of existence is some going and the Queers have an obvious popularity that this album will only increase.

RANCID - Hooligans EP CD (Epitaph)
Taken from their rather cool Life Won't Wait album the title track is an awesome skank-a-rama that most people will have heard by now. The CD also includes two unreleased versions of released tracks, the old time reggae sounding Things To Come which has a lovely laid back Jamaican vibe. The other number is a nice experimental mix of punk, Soul and African rhythms to create a different version of the track Cash Culture, And Violence. Fine stuff.

RIVER CITY RAPISTS - Love Hurts CD (Junk Records)
Sporting a "Warning XXX Matter" label on the cover you begin to wonder who's that for. The rebellious teenager wanting to shock or to keep the record shop keepers and religious buffers happy ?! Anyway RCR aren't subtle in what they do and are really on par with the Nobodys in the sexist lyric department and what's more they don't even sound good! Musically this is average garage rock with snotty vocals which at times sound piss poor. I guess they'd like to be the garage Motorhead but fail miserably. I was bored 2 songs in and there's only 8 anyway and the anal sex porno pic (hence the label) on the inlay is just not shocking - your average 14 year old is checking out stuff like that out every night on the net. Love hurts not half as much as being tortured by this heap of sexist shit.

SATANIC SURFERS - Going Nowhere Fast CD (Burning Heart Records)
The first thing that hit me smack in the eyes was the second track Worn Out Words that I nearly mis took as a cover of the mighty 3 (the band) song Walking By Myself as the chorus was almost identical but then it wasn't but it was enough to get my attention. This band have a great sound, are fast as fuck with many songs under a minute - sort of early Lagwagon, SNFU and not too dissimilar from our very own One Car Pile Up. This is melodic hardcore that has pop edges but retains some flavour of its own and these songs are real catchy with nice vocal touches too. Great stuff the Satanic Surfers may sound like a metal band but they're far from it there's not a chugga chug in audible range. Going nowhere fast ? You got to be kidding.

SCREECHING WEASLE - Television City Dream CD (Fat Wreck Chords)
The Weasel are back with another album that cuts some of its Ramones ties in favour of a return to their early sound. This just rocks it's as simple as that, great tracks that are catchy, fast paced and with cover art that would be well suited to a Joy Division or Kraftwerk release this is a sheer delight and you'll be in dream city with Ben and the gang.

SEAWEED - Actions and Indications CD (Merge Records)
This is so average that I could cry. An album of post grunge hardcore that retains the feel of their once label Sub Pop but just doesn't deliver the goods. Sounding a little like the Foo Fighters, a little like Mudhoney and a little bit indie but generally never in the right combination and very disappointing with the exception of the opening track Antilyrical. Seaweed have never been able to live up to Weak and that is exactly what this album is.

SENSELESS -Fast Music For Cool People DEMO (37 Heath Ave, Maybank, Newcastle Under Lyme, Staffs, ST5 9NP, UK)
I love the DIY card sleeve very inventive. Senseless are a 4 piece combo that play US influenced pop punk sort of like Sloppy Seconds meets NOFX in a dark alley. It's OK except for a couple of observations which are that the music doesn't quite gel sometimes and the vocals are a little off at times. But apart from that an pretty decent effort.

SERVO - Blueprint EP 7" (Crackle Records)
A new band on Crackle, Servo are a great little outfit from Newcastle which may explain the Geordie links to their sound. Servo remind me a lot of late 80s fragglites Dan or their offspring Sofahead from Darlington. 5 crackin' tracks that leave me happy as fuck. Great EP I can't wait to hear more from this band.

SERVO - Everything's Difficult CD (Crackle Records)
Everything may well be difficult expect for one thing and that is reviewing this CD because this rules the high seas in my book. Following up their excellent Blueprint EP Servo come up with an truly top debut album of melodic pop punk. Servo are one hell of an awesome band, kinda reminiscent for me of Darlington's Sofahead (remember them ?) only better songs. Crackle have really come up trumps with this one and I can't stop playing this CD it really is that fucking good! If you buy one UK disc this year make it this one - Servo are A1.

THE SHAPES - Songs For Sensible People Wrong CD (Overground)
I'd not come across the Shapes prior to this release but I do have a fondness for early punk bands. The Shapes were cool there's no doubt about that and sound very much like a whole string of bands like the Nosebleeds, Killjoys, Arthur Comics, the Pork Dukes and the Art Attacks. There's some excellent tracks on here like College Girls and Wot's For Lunch Mum, etc. Some of the tracks are repeated in different versions. The Shapes spanned a 4 year life which included a Peel session and 2 singles. This is a good document of a little known Leamington Spa band that were very cool indeed.

SICK OF IT ALL - Call To Arms CD (Fat Wreck Chords)
Well SOIA are back with another album that is actually a marked improvement in my eyes. At times this reminds me of Sham 69 in a heavy vein but its definitely more punky than metally, maybe the re-emergence of Agnostic Front has had an influence but a pleasing one none the less. 15 quite tuneful punk-metal ditties which are less NYHC and this album is pretty decent especially Call To Arms, The Future Is Mine and Sanctuary. Not so sick of it all anymore.

SILENT BOB - It's All Part of Growing Up DEMO (Silent Bob, 'Skerries', Johnshill, Waterford, Ireland)
Hailing from Ireland this is a great demo, catchy post punk tunes that have a great feel to them. I really like the slightly strained vocals on here which adds a nice edge to it all. 5 top tracks plus a great cartoon cover and intro with a little kid giving it some attitude, I look forward to hearing more from this band.

SIX BY SEVEN - For You CDEP (Beggars Banquet Records)
Well this is the best I've heard this band. For You is actually a really good track in a indie kind of way while the remaining two tracsk let the side down with two 7 min boring numbers. But someone at BB really needs to do these guys a favour and pay for a graphic designer to do their sleeve artwork. 7 releases in and all using the same fucking 9 lines, it's time some told them it's shit.

SKIMMER - Vexed CD (Crackle Records)
Skimmer have realy hit the mark with Vexed this is a colossus of tune rich ditties that lean towards the joyous pop punk of the Mega City 4. 15 tracks plus an extra 6 or 1 depending on your pressing of the CD. Skimming the lily pads of happy go-lucky punk, Skimmer recant lyrics about personal experience and feelings and this light hearted CD is a joy. There's nothing to be vexed about here so get your hand in you pocket and get your pennies off to the Crackle kids.

SKRUIGNERS - La Cosa Che Non ha Imprtanza CD (Etichetta Punk)
Bloody marvellous that is the only way to describe the raging brand of Italian hardcore that is Skruigners. Harking back to the amazing Italian outfits of the 80s Negazione, Indegesti, Raw Power and the like, but only in a sense of music as the vocals have a less aggressive streak than the above mentioned and have more in common with Finland's Appendix or Sweden's Puke. Apparently meaning "Something Not Important" this album drives along at such a pace you can't help but love it.

THE SLACKERS - The Question CD (HellCat Records)
Old time ska, that has hints of the 60s Rock 'N' Roll, R&B, Calypso, Jazz and lashings of Soul. This is a great album and will have you dancing in the aisles to the happy beat of the mighty Slackers. The Question is a true record of proper Ska and the influences of the scene that it came out of. A multitude of fine musicians proficiently ply they respective disciplines with pure style and these songs are highly enjoyable and the question is… when's the next disc out!

SLOPPY SECONDS - More Trouble Than They're Worth CD (Nitro Records)
It's good to see BA and the gang bang back at it again with a new release. Sloppy Seconds are a great band with more humour than a tin of itching powder down your undies. 16 ball breaking ditties shooting their load with a rock 'n' roll cum Ramones prowess. Fun anthems like the Thing From Uranus, You Got A Great Body But Your Record Collection Sucks, I Don't Wanna Be Your Boyfriend and Ephedrine Machine. Anyone for Sloppy Seconds ?

SOUTHPAW - Goddess CDEP (Meantime Records)
Norwich's Southpaw return with their follow up single to their excellent On A Limb Wrong. On their own label Meantime, which is the same name as Ian Armstrong's label from a number of years back, this 3 track EP rocks just as much as their debut even if the songs are a little mellower. The last track is a real corker, very Farside and very cool too. Southpaw are a great band with a pretty halo in our eyes and they make me jolly while delivering a firm left hook to your chin.

SOUTHPAW - On A Limb Wrong CDEP (Meantime Records)
From their last demo which was cool enough, Southpaw have blossomed into a finely honed band delivering a mighty 4 track CD that sounds fantastic. Cutting melancholic guitars with overlaid honeydew vocal harmonies which have enough bitterness to sour the flavour leave you gagging for more. The title track is an absolute cracker and the whole CD reminds me of Samiam. Southpaw consist of ex members of Mr Jolly and I think Southpaw achieves what its predecessor attempted to do. Along with Doug these guys are two of the best UK bands around.

SPEED URCHIN - Pocket Rocket CD (Hectic Records, 68 Valley Road, Brackley, Northants, NN13 7DQ, UK - £10 inc post)
Are you a small scruff in need of some amphetamines well this band can offer you such an opportunity. Speed Urchin deliver a mighty loud blast of driving punk fuelled tuneage that has a real energy about it and a very British sound - I can see why Sean at Org was so into them when he was interviewed for the last issue of HH. Pocket Rocket consists of 15 tracks that flow one into the other so much so that no sooner than you put the disc on it seems to have finished. Kinda hard to describe sort of Leatherface meets Half Man Half Biscuits and then side swiped by the Abs. Great disc from Hectic and well worth a listen.

SPUNGE - Kicking Pigeons EP CD (Sucka-Punch Records)
With a cruel streak running through their veins Spunge are a rather cool ska-punk outfit delivering high quality tunes in a Euro-ska style that sounds great. The production is a bit rough though but the songs are there and that's what counts. Look forward to hearing more from this lot.

SPUNGE - Pedigree Chump 2CD (Moon Ska Europe)
Spunge (sic) a nice soft, absorbent cleaning implement found in the sea - that's a nice description of this bunch of punk skankers from Tewkesbury. Pedigree Chump is 90% lean skankin' grooves that sticks a beaming grin on your mush as you tuck into a fine platter of 14 (+ 5 live bonus tracks on CD2) choice cuts of joyous ditties. This is such a big improvement in recording on their debut release and like the EP the tunes have more hooks than Pinhead. Reminds me vocally of Millencolin and this album is a sheer pleasure to listen to. Top band, great music and top dog - get your slice today.

STAMPIN' GROUND - An Expression of Repressed Violence CD (Kingfisher Records)
Boy is this angry, with new vocalist Sime on board, Heath seems a distance memory. The first thing that grabs you about SG is the awesome power of the vocals which are brutal in delivery - this man must smoke about 60 a day! SG have a very metallic HC sound that is heavy and brings to mind Slayer, Sepultura, Carcass and Napalm Death. There's 11 tracks of down right intense hardcore that is quite exciting and the highlights for me were Betrayed By Many and Lesion which really reminds me of Kreator. There's also an metal version of the class punk anthem Jerusalem originally by One Way System only SG don't really do it justice. Should be a popular release and the SG guys are practically touring the world too.

STINKING POLECATS - These Are Just Stoopid Songs Played By Morons CD (Irritation Records, 430 Carlton Road, Carlton, Barnsley, S71 3HX, UK)
Keef from Leadbelly has started a label and this is the first release so support this new label OK! The Stinking Polecats hail from Italy and play some great nonsensical pop punk that would feel at home on Crackle. 10 tracks of cool tunage that has the most ridiculous lyrics like He's Bog or I Going This Way and there's a very distasteful picture of some poor twat caught having a shower - needless to say humour is high on the Polecats agenda and this comes across very well . Lively tunes with fun, fun, fun as Forest Gump said "Stoopid is as Stoopid does…".

STRAIGHT FACED - Conditioned CD (Epitaph)
Fully expecting and album full of the same stuff as their previous effort I was a little surprised to find something a little more experimental. Still with the NY crew feel they've gone a little more heavier and they songs have an nice variety about them. Not an outstanding album but a pleasant surprise.

STROKE - Internal Call EP CD (XL Recordings)
Oh yes this is pretty cool, Stroke come across as a hybrid dance-garage outfit with a bit of a Skin Yard bent. There's a real hard reverberating fat drum sound with a orchestrated melody filling the background and some dreamy vocals overlaid to full effect. Enjoyable release that has some interesting ideas that give a very creative feel to Stroke, nice packaging too.

THE STYRENES - All The Wrong People Are Dying CD (Overground)
The Styrenes are ex members of the Electric Eels and this album is a great compilation of this band's vinyl output. With an abstract musical backdrop the spoken vocals have a distinct eerieness about them with a Greg Proops feel! The dark lyrical content adds to the unease and yet retains some perverse sense of humour while being encased in a great cacophony of instrumental surrealism that features piano, cello, sax, clarinet, drums, percussion and violins. It reminds me a little of Patti Smith in places and is really different to anything you've ever heard. Interesting stuff.

SWINGIN' UTTERS - The Sounds Wrong CDEP (Fat Wreck Chords)
This is a re-release of the Utters 1995 EP originally out on Seattle's IFA Records. 6 tracks of early Utters numbers which have a nice raw UK sound to them that's reminiscent of the Oi Label's output - Blitz, etc. I guess this will be a must for Utters fans but don't expect it to blow your mind with originality though it does hint at some nice early Social Distortion vocals.

THE TANK - There's No 'I' in Band CD (Dr Strange Records)
Wow, I love the Tank or as their previous incarnation Brown Lobster Tank. I think I prefer the shortened version. Anyway 13 cool as you like poppy punk rock anthems with blistering guitar licks, thumping bass lines and tight ass drums keeping it all together and over laid with melodic yet instant vocals which grab the hell out of ya. Every track is a winner and I just love this to bits. Plus there's a cover of I'm The Man, great stuff.

THE TANK - Standing in Your Way EP 7" (Dr Strange Records)
3 top numbers by member of Brown Lobster Tank and Welt and taken from their forthcoming album There's No 'I' in Band. If these tracks are a good indicator of the album it should be an absolute corker.

TEEN IDOLS - Pucker Up CD (Honest Dons)
I really like the Teen Idols and this is a great album full of fine tunes except for one irritation that runs through the whole album. The word I'm looking for here is processed. The vocals sound like they've been over processed using either a harmoniser or vocoder which makes every song sound so similar to start with that I had to listen to it a couple of times to be able to get a grip on it. Once you've got past that though you're OK but it does have the end result of making the Teen Idols sound like the Ramones musically and Pinky and Perky meets Hanson (the teenie pop band) on backing vocals. Saying that 20 Below is a blinding track and Her Only One, Big Girl Now and Been So Far are all cool. Great stuff but just stick to reverb, delay and double tracking, OK

TEN FOOT POLE - Insider CD (Epitaph)
Those people of the large stick variety are back with a blistering new album of well seasoned fast paced melodic punk tunes in that So Cal style. Those young upstarts from Scared Straight have come along way since their early days on Mystic and this album rules. Insider is chock full of catchy attitude filled tracks about personal experience. This really is a must, top pole!

TRAITORS - S/T CD (Johanns Face Records)
In your goddamn face ball blistering punk rock that has more attitude than a pack of hungry pitbulls. Take a chainsaw guitar, a beaten up drum kit, swallow a mouth full of gravel and put in a garage with a case of Super, mix for an hour and then unleash on an unsuspecting public. The Traitors remind me of the energy of Husker Du's - Land Speed Record LP mixed with the intense attitude of Negative FX and Psycho. This is so reminiscent of 80s American punk, awesomely fast 'n' furious… Yeah!!!

TURTLEHEAD - I Preferred Their Earlier Stuff CD (Bad Taste Records)
We reviewed the advance tape of this back in issue 10. So on hearing it again we felt it was worth another plug as this disc fucking rules. Just to reiterate what we said last time: Turtlehead really surpass themselves with this great album 12 cool as you like finger lickin' punk rock tunage with those catchy harmonious vocals and top notch riffola. Class tracks like Over You show Turtlehead at their best and it takes over from my fave track of theirs - Wall Tie. Most of the songs are touched with a wicked sense of humour including the declaration of love to Johnny Ball's female off spring - Zoe Ball. This album is sheer Scots class so just get it, right ?! I preferred their earlier stuff… No, this fucking rocks.

TV21 - To Protect & Surf EP 7" (Flycatcher Records, 'Hawaii 5-0' Tokio Road, Portsmouth, PO3 5AT, UK.)
Wave riding surf style 60s rock 'n' roll is the best way to describe TV21 who produce a neat little EP here. 4 ditties of instrumental Safari's meet the Shadows style guitarology including the Man From Uncle Theme and a wipe out rip off. Great stuff and love the concept of the cool sleeve artwork.

THE TWITS - S/T CD (Dirty Records)
Featuring probably one of the crummiest names for a band ever and one that does them no justice at all, The Twits seem like a non starter. But behind the school playground name this band are a powerful exciting bands that pile drive hard faced punk rock down your throat with a reminiscent feel of Iconoclast and the Vice Squad. This self titled album on Dirty Records sees them play a mean set of 15 choice cuts of fuck you attitude with fine lyrics. Great stuff shame about the name.

UNDECLINABLE AMBUSCADE - One For The Money CD (Epitaph)
Despite the poor name UA are a great Dutch band that play the most infectious Euro-punk. Somewhere between Millencolin, No For An Answer and Bad Religion their songs have heaps of feeling and particular faves include Trapped, Chatterbox, Throw Away Society, Vagabond, 7 Years and the comical attack on the USA in Libber Tea. Their lyrics cover a wide range of social politics and certainly one to spend your dosh on.

UNDECLINABLE AMBUSCADE - Trapped CDS (Epitaph)
One of the best tracks from their One For The Money album, Trapped, is a sad tale about a woman who longs to have a sex change but cant' afford to. Also on this single is another pretty average track and a naff version of Simon and Garfunkle's Homeward Bound. UNION 13 - Why Are We Destroying Ourselves? CD (Epitaph)
It's been a while since their debut album which was an absolute killer, fast and furious and akin to those awesome 80s outfits like Peggio Punx, Wretched and Negazione. Their new effort is better produced but more polished and has been tarnished with the Epitaph sound which is a real shame. Don't get me wrong it still sounds good but some of the backing doesn't seem to fit naturally but without them it's not Epi so they are there. The songs are there and some are untarnished but I guess they've been a little too guided on some tracks. Less is more as they say!

UNKLE - Be There CDS (Mojowax)
Starting off all laid back with almost a Doors feels this one track promo features Ian Brown on vocals. The music is wonderful in a relaxing swirling haze of drum grooves and chorused guitar and orchestrated samples. This stuff is not my usual cup of tea but I really did like Unkle they deliver some lovely sounds that convey a real sense of tranquillity.

US BOMBS - The World CD (Hellcat)
If the Clash were still going today then this is what they'd sound like, in fact US Bombs are so Clash that they even cover a Joe Strummer song. US Bombs deliver yet another fine album that even tops the exceptionally cool War Birth. 16 tracks of blistering melodic punk with '77 style overtones making this explosive album a definite must have for any self respecting punk rocker. Every track is a gem and the CD comes in similar fancy packaging to the last disc. Brilliant album that's not been off my CD player.

THE USERS - Sick Of You 7" (Damaged Goods)
Oh yes it is so good to hear those Raw Records again these fuckers are so damn expensive being collectors items and Raw was one of the very early punk labels that put out some really cool bands but with pretty limited runs. The Users are great and typify the ear of '77 with the title track having an early Damned (when they have Brain James on guitar) cum NY Dolls feel. The flips has (I'm) in Love With Today which is very NY Dolls meets Richard Hell. Raw unadulterated punk in the era where production was something that a theatre company put on.

VARIOUS - 5 Years On The Streets CD (Vagrant Records)
This is a mighty cool sampler from Vagrant and features a top selection of great bands with about 2 tracks each some which are unreleased. Including Blink 182 covering Gen X's cool song Dancing With Myself, Face To Face, No Motiv, the excellent Boxer, Automatic 7 play two class melodic ditties that will melt your soul, The Hippos with their mighty orchestrated sound similar to the Pie Tasters, Unwritten Law who pay homage to Adam Ant with Goody Two Shoes and a more Ants style backing - cool! There's also Far, Gotohells, Nuclear Saturday, Down By Law, MxPx (doing that 50s classic Blue Moon) and J Church. There's some great tracks on here and well worth your pennies.

VARIOUS - 26 Excellent Estrus Spicy Sizzlers Sampler CD (Estrus Records)
A promo sampler of the mighty Estrus label featuring hot and tasty tracks from The Coyote Men, Crown Royals, Drags, Fells, Girl Trouble, Impala, Insomniacs, Madam X, Makers, Man Or Astroman, Mono Men, Mortals, Quadrajets, Nomads, Switched Trout, Volcanoes. A mixed bag catering for all tastes from Lounge Jazz to Rockabilly and from raw punk to 60s style punk and rock and roll to surf. There are only a few bad eggs in the picnic basket and this is made up for by the quality of the rest. A great spicy sampler with only a few bad bits so fill your plate and pass the chilli sauce Estrus' sizzlers are the best.

VARIOUS - Alive In Ireland CD (Rejected Records)
This is a benefit for the Warzone Collective so it deserves your support further more it's a pretty decent live document too. There's a number of tracks by each of 4 bands. Wat Tyler take the stage first and play their witty set of inane grin worthy anthems such as the Smurf Song, Hops & Barley and Little People always a guaranteed laugh. Next up is Scottish punkers Ex-Cathedra who are totally cool and treat us to 5 great tunes including Needles, Anaesthetized and Truth in Flight. Third on this CD are Jesse and Frankie and the gang deliver a fine track in Rant but the others seem to be lacking something. Finally Kabin Boy bring up the rear with about 3 mins of feedback before the song starts arrgh…. this really was dire not my cup of tea at all.

VARIOUS - Deck Cheese Vol 1 CD (Deck Cheese Records)
This is a sampler from the Big Cheese magazine in celebration of skate punk and hardcore. Featuring the Bouncing Souls, Millencolin, Snuff, Samiam, One Car Pile-Up, the Wernt, King Prawn, Tribute To Nothing, Redhed and My Own Victim. Great Compilation of available tracks for £8.50 ppd from Vision On address (see address in Zine Scene)

VARIOUS - Deep Thoughts CD (Nitro Records)
Pretty average compilation of Nitro's litter which sees the puppies of the Vandals, AFI, Guttermouth, TSOL, Jughead's Revenge, One Hit Wonders, Sloppy Seconds and the Offspring all offering a couple of tracks each from each band's respective Nitro release or re-release with the exception of an Offspring and TSOL track. But these are not sufficient enough to impress. An OK CD but nothing outstanding.

VARIOUS - Don't Worry It's Only Punk (Buckweeds and Friends)
CD (Smokin' Troll Records)
Well a 5 band split on the label that smokes trolls. This reminds me of Shall We Dance which was a similar idea way back in the 80s. Starting at the top this split features the Buckweeds, Belgium's answer to Sloppy Seconds with an awesome appetite for spunk soup and the Ramones. A rather potent cocktail of 5 tracks. Next on is the strangely titled Think Tank Pink Po(n)p from Tokyo who supply the catchy and rather fine title track along with 3 other top tracks in that melodious pop punk way but with a great unpolished production. Seven Inch Chord are next on the roster and I really love this great Japanese band. They remind me of the Primitives meets the Avengers with Cyndi Lauper on vocals and with great guitar riffs. A Full on attitude and candy coated harmonies totally blew me away. The last part of the CD is reserved as bonus tracks and feature 2 UK outfits Raggity Anne who supply a number of fine ditties in a Mega City 4 vein and Chester a new band with a nice comic pop punk sound that has quite grown on me since I reviewed their demo. Great value disc.

VARIOUS - Dr Strange vs Asian Man Super Heroes Vol 1 CD (Mission Control)
A four band split two each from the two respective labels mention. In the Dr Strange corner is the tag team of Sinkhole and Underhand and in the Asian Man corner is MU330 and Link 80. There's 8 tracks by each band and they are mainly previously released tracks bar a couple. So you've got a comp which features the pop punk prowess of Sinkhole, the skankin tunage from Link 80, the early Social Distortion feel of Underhand and the punk-ska sounding MU330. Great idea and excellent if you've not got all the different releases that these tracks are from. I declare the bout a draw.

VARIOUS - Forward 'Till Death CD (Lookout Records)
Yet another sampler of Lookout's releases from last year. Featuring all your faves like Avail, Hi Fives, Donnas, Groovie Ghoulies, Pansy Division, Crumbs, Servotron Mr T Exp and Citizen Fish etc... Decent enough sampler if you missed out on last years discs.

VARIOUS - Goin' After Pussy: Teasers & Tidbits CD (Junk Records)
Junk sampler of their stable on bands with irritating spoken interludes between some of the songs. This 41 track compilation features the excellent Bulemics, Humpers, Manic Hispanics, Candy Snatchers, Electric Frankenstein, Boris The Sprinkler, New Wave Hookers and Zeke plus some others no so cool like The Siobs, Dipshits, River City Rapists, Onyas, Dragons, Jakkpot, Dimestore Haloes, Lowdowns, Stallions and the Weaklings. Pretty OK average sampler some great some shit.

VARIOUS - Hopelessly Devoted To You, Too CD (Hopeless Records)
This is a great sampler from Hopeless' finest bands. What makes this sampler so cool is the variety and diversity of styles on here. There's something for everyone from Ska-punk to hardcore to pop. Most of the tracks are unreleased from the likes of Dillinger Four, 88 Fingers Louie, Funeral Oration, Falling Sickness, Mustard Plug, The Queers, The Nobodys, Heckle and Against All Authority. The only gripe is the naff bonus track which is the most abysmal cover of the Bangles Walk Like An Egyptian. Apart from that though this is an awesome sampler and nice packaging too.

VARIOUS - Let It All Hang Out! Volume One CD (Alopecia Records)
Yeah man 20 rockin' and rollin', rhythm and bluesy punky garage surf music. From bands that sound like early Stones in their Chicago Blues era to garage punk this disc has it all. Every track has a great raw and gutsy feel that you can only find on old 50s, 60s and 70s records these days. On here are the likes of Thee Headcoats, the Jammin' Arabs, the Cybermen, the Green Hornets plus a whole heap more. If you love that 60s punk stuff or love to surf and get down to some real gusty R&B this is the disc for you. So just let it hang baby.

VARIOUS - Locked In To Surf (Part 2) CD (Alopecia! Records)
This a compilation of surf bands that includes a multitude of instrumental surf nuts like the Green Hornets, Waistcoats, Magnificent Escapades, the Dactaris and a host of others. Basically its your typical pure surf stuff like the original stuff from the 60s that you either love or hate. Pretty cool stuff and a nice old valve sound to the guitars.

VARIOUS - No Need For Wise Guys EP 7" (Just Jim Records, available from: 10 Sutherland Court, 203 Albion Road, Stoke Newington, London, N16 9JT, UK)
Thanks for Rob and Pam Chester for sending this EP in. The single kicks off with the Griswalds and a nice up beat punky number with snot fuelled vocals. They also have another track on the flipside in fact all the bands on this comp bar one have two tracks interspersed through out the disc. Fett are next and a little bit average but OK enough and their second track is the better of the two. Up next are Chester who have improved ten fold with the full band compliment and treat us to two happy go lucky toe tapping sci-fi punk ditties that draw on the 70s new wave for reference. Finally Jack Chimp bring up the rear with an average garage number. Nice packaging with a Flash Gordon theme and pretty cool EP too for only £2 on throbbing pink wax.

VARIOUS - Pure Punk CD (Cyclone Records)
Another compilation from the States this one features a host of new and unreleased tracks by a wealth of fine international bands that generally seem to have a punk/oi feel to them. Bands like the Bombshell Rocks, Boils, Bruisers, Ducky Boys, Pinkerton Thugs, Guttersnipe, Weekend Bowlers, No One's Victim, Gun Dog, Infiltrators, Squiggy, Outsiders, Cuffs, Randumbs, 30 Seconds Over Tokyo, Unsung Heroes and Voice of A Generation. There's some really good tracks on here and the 21 tracks make for a good blast of street punk - this could be the Punk & Disorderly series of the 90s.

VARIOUS - Short Music For Short People CD (Fat Wreck Chords)
Novelty record of the century, yep even one will buy this because this is probably going to get the in the Guinness book of Records for the biggest number of bands playing full songs all under 40 seconds on one CD. Fizzy Bangers, Lass Than Jake, Teen Idols, Terrorgrupe, Good Riddance, Chixdiggit, Living End, Bad Religion, Hi Standard, Aerobitch, nerf Herder, Bigwig, Undeclinable Ambuscade, Fury 66, Ataris, Unwritten Law, AFI, Dillinger 4, Spread, Swingin' Utters, Barfeeders, Citizen Fish, Blink 182, Goober Patrol, Killswitch, Enemy You, NUFAN, Green Day, Consumed, MrT Exp, Lagwagon, GWAR, Dickies, Samiam, Dogpiss, 59 Times The Pain, Bracket, No Means No, Descendents, Dance Hall Crashers, Guttermouth, Limp, Jughead's Revenge, Circle Jerks, Offspring, Mad Caddies, Criminals, Screeching Weasel, One Man Army, Strung Out, Youth Brigade, Groovie Ghoulies, Tilt, Spazz, the Damned, 88 Fingers Louie, DOA, Pulley, Vandals, Pennywise, No Fun At All, Sick of it All, ALL, NOFX, 7 Seconds, Rancid, Diesel Boy, AOD, Frenzal rhomb, Queers, DI, Black Flag, White Flag, Anti Flag, Avail, real MaKenzies, Agnostic Front, Down by Law, Radio Days, Useless ID, Poison Idea, Men O Steel, Subhumans (UK), Buck Wild, Lunachicks, Dwarves, Bouncing Souls, Trigger Happy, One Hit Wonders, Hotbox, 20%, Snuff, Muffs, H20, Bodyjar, Nicotine, Satanic Surfers, Ten Foot Pole, Caustic Soda, Misfits and Wizo. Phew got there in the end, great concept and 90% of these tracks have been recorded just for this CD.

VARIOUS - Ska Sucks CD (Liberation Records, PO Box 17746, Anaheim, CA 92817, USA)
30 cracking tracks from 30 international bands makes up this compilation Ska Sucks. Featuring the like of the Pie Tasters, Mustard Plug, Chickenpox, Millencolin, Against All Authority, Home Grown, Liberator, Hepcat and the Dance Hall Crashers. This fine sampler provides a jolly jig around the fire of a cold dark night. You can imagine a bunch of families crowded around the wireless listening to this, marvellous.

VARIOUS - This Is Bad Taste Vol 2 CD (Bad Taste Records)
The second cheap sampler in the This Is Bad Taste series which on my copy features an interactive multimedia presentation which you can view on a PC or Mac and is pretty cool with sound and video clips. So onto the bands well there's the likes of Astream, Misconduct, Satantic Surfers, Pridebowl, Last Days of April, 88 Fingers Louie, Turtlehead, Langhorns, Almighty Trigger Happy and Intensity plus guest tracks from I Spy, Weakerthans and But Alive. Decent enough sampler of Bad Taste's finest.

VARIOUS -We Go To Bed In My Room Sleepie Mix EP 7" (My Room Records, PO Box Forever 264, Sierra Madre, CAA 91025-0264, USA)
The first thing that greets you is the real "I made this in my bedroom" look and feel to this release. 5 bands on here Sarcastic Bitch, Goodnite Moon, Make A Wish, Acetaminophen and Complete Sentences. Each band sounds like a lo-fi acoustic sleep inducer along the lines of Velocette. Very basic and a little unappealing indie pop, sleepie mix is a good choice of words.

VELOCETTE - Four Fold Remedy CD (Wiiija)
Containing the previously reviewed two singles this album just follows on in the same dreamy vein. It's the nineties version of Peter Paul and Mary without Peter and Paul.

VELOCETTE - Spoiled Children EP & Bitter Scene EP CDS (Wiiija)
Two CDEPs here, very nice dreamy femme fatale vocals create the atmosphere of a 60s Sci Fi movie and Velocette are from the same world as St Etienne. This is nice enough pop music that takes you away from it all but it could also send you to sleep in the process with its dream like quality.

VELOCETTE - Reborn EP CD (Wiiija)
More of the same from Velocette nice harmless tunes that are better than a visualisation relaxation tape to get to sleep with.

VIBRATORS - Volume 10/Unpunked CD (Overground Records)
This is double penetration from the Vibrators, OK, OK, I know... so it's not that often that a sad reviewer has the opportunity to utilise double entendres but a band like the Vibrators just ooze that option. So with a buzz and a continuous humming sound I will move quickly back and forth across this page to get this review done as quickly and cleanly as possible. Well surprisingly this is a CD that contains two Vibrators albums, unfortunately not their best stuff. First up is Volume 10 featuring 13 tracks of slightly rocky punk that really has weak songs and bar Video Girl and Hey America is pretty boring. The strange cover of Buddy Holly's classic Rave On sounds like a Black Lace party album and quite frankly smells of the time that comes to all good folk, when you need to call it a day. Unpunked takes up the next 9 tracks and is a series of acoustic unplugged type songs (hence the name I guess) which are a whole heap better. Reminds me of the Clash (latter era)
meets Bob Dylan (vocally)
and is fairly catchy and I like acoustic stuff anyway. Generally though unless you're a big fan of the Vibrators or like glam punk then I guess you be wise to give it the "V"s.

VOODOO GLOWSKULLS - Band Geek Mafia CD (Epitaph)
This has to be the best Glowskulls album to date 14 crackin' tracks of punk/ska/jazz/reggae/big band/funk/R&B fusion that delivers a very unique sound that this album seems to capture so well. This is certainly less diverse than some of their releases and like Baile De Los Locos is a lot more aggressive and up tempo. What the Glowskulls do best is create a varied complexity of musical sounds with a myriad of instrumentation that combines to make the most amazing songs. Get out your buerritos, tacos, jalopenos and cover it in the hot sauce that is the spicy Voodoo Glowskulls.

WAT TYLER/FREAKS UNION - Split EP 7" (Peter Bower Records, PO Box 132, Leeds, LS6 2RR, UK)
The third release on Peter Bower and this time sees the North-South divide in terms of Hull and London. Wat Tyler deliver 3 tracks of their usual animal antics and ludicrous insanity. On the flip sees Hull's punky roosters Freaks Union play 3 tracks from their demo in their melodic 80s style punk fashion. Top EP and great sleeve layout.

WHISTLER - Don't Jump In Front Of My Train CDS (Wiiija)
A great melancholic blues graces the opening ditty on here and once again that harp is playing a mean accompaniment. The remaining two tracks are cool too with the last having a Suzanne Vega feel which is great. Whistler are a very cool band for laid back folk and music that would please any travelling gypsy.

WHISTLER - If I Give You A Smile CDS (Wiiija)
This folky outfit with female vocals to die for return with 3 tracks. The title is a lovely celtic sounding affair and the remaining tracks are just as sweet with some cool harmonica. Lovely on a cold winter's night.

ANDRE WILLIAMS - Silky CD (In The Red)
You may be thinking who is Andre Williams well he was responsible for that excellent 50s ditty Shake That Tailfeather. Anyway this new album is a low down, deep and dirty rhythm and blues injection fuelled by an obsession with sex. This dirty old (man) timer has been cranking it up and strutting his stuff about since the 50s and boy is he just a little preoccupied with intercourse and that's not verbal! Just to give you some idea the album has a track titled Let Me Put It In and one called Pussy Stank. This album is a great rock 'n' roll, rhythm and blues explosion with some great harmonic and a voice full of attitude and mischief. Silky smooth baby...

WRITE OFFS/HOMEBREW - Split EP 7" (Label unknown, contact: PO BOX 303, Harrogate, HG2 0XQ, UK)
Split release between Thirsk Ska-punk merchants the Write Offs and pissed punks Homebrew. The Write Offs service with two numbers, the first being Legalise which sounds like a Rancid number and McFuck which is a skank and sax number which is nice too. The flip sees Homebrew who tear through two numbers with drunken connotations (surprisingly!)
which are OK in a fast punk/oi kind of way. No Lyrics, No Label only the one address listed above so I guess that will get you more info.

YOUTH BRIGADE - Out of Print CD (BYO Records)
Youth Brigade are just one of the finest bands of all time and this CD compiles the original 1982 recording of the awesome classic Sound and Fury LP plus some additional session and demo tracks. YB are excellent even in their younger years, so go get that slab of history now.