The Music...
ARTIFICIAL PEACE “Complete Session November 81” LP Dischord
One of the forerunners of DC hardcore, Artificial Peace didn’t hang around long, but did gain some local fame and lead to the formation of Marginal Man. This 17 song LP features songs that would appear on the “Flex Your Head” compilation, but the other 14 never saw the light of day. This is pretty basic stuff, but that’s the appeal of it, and I really like this sort of thing, it feels more real and more urgent and perfectly captures a point in time, and you can almost feel Washington DC getting ready to explode in a mushroom cloud of punk rock energy. It’s great that Dischord are making these songs available as they deserve to be heard.
Dischord: www.dischord.com (Tony)
BRAIN F≠ “Sleep Rough” LP Static Shock
After two top notch singles from Brain F≠ comes an LP that out shines both. It has a sound quality that’s much better than the EPs, but not so much so that it takes those glorious rough edges off the songs, and it doesn’t detract from the pulsating energy this band delivers. The songs are fast, noisy and totally great, they have a late ‘70s punk feel at the same time as sounding totally up to date and vital. This is great and it’s cool that Static Shock have given it a UK release, treat yourselves to one of the best releases of 2011.
Static Shock: www.staticshockrecords.com (Tony)
BURNT CROSS Break The Law Not The Poor” 7” Tadpole / others
I admit it, I’m a late convert to Burnt Cross; I was always torn between wanting to support Tadpole Records and being put off by the fact that it was just two people and they used a drum machine. When I decided I should check them out and did an internet search I found that I rather liked what these guys were doing, and that the drum machine wasn’t horribly noticeable like it was been when other bands have used one, so I wasn’t going to procrastinate when this came out. This EP has four tracks of quality anarcho punk, at times bringing to mind Conflict, especially on the opener “Ian Thomlinson”, with the title track being the pick of the bunch for me, but only just. I like Maureen Farrell’s vocals on “They’ve Got The Power”, they remind me of Hagar The Womb, and the whole thing is rounded off with a really great cover of The Apostles’ “Mob Violence”. Released in conjunction with various other labels proving that punk rock co-operation is a great way to get things done. I like this a lot.
Tadpole: http://tadpolerecords.blogspot.com (Tony)
BURNT CROSS “Mankind’s Obituary” CD Tadpole / others
We have a Tory government, Britain’s cities have seen riots, there’s been mass strikes and everyone who’s not part of the privileged rich are under attack from those in power; it’s a time for punk bands to be angry and outspoken, thankfully some still are and Burnt Cross most definitely fall into that category. This CD compiles 7”, demo, split release tracks and even unreleased songs; they are pissed off, confrontational and in your face and it’s a release done in true DIY style, with ten labels co-operating to put it out. This two man band have a lot to say and the lack of a full band isn’t going to deter them, and I’m all in favour of that; why should you need a conventional band to make music when you can release songs that sound as good as this? This is how anarcho punk was in the early days; if you wanted to create music to spread your message then you did, using whatever means you had. I like Maureen’s guest vocals, they fit perfectly, reminding me of bands like Hagar The Womb, and add to the authenticity of this style of music. I’m glad that there are still bands like this around, and still people willing to question and complain, and put out releases like this that makes me want to play it over and over. It reminds me of the early ‘80s but, sadly, it’s all too relevant for 2011. Protest and survive.
Tadpole: tadpolerecords.blogspot.com/ (Tony)
BRAIN F≠ “So Dim” 7” Grave Mistake
Sonically these two tracks remind me of The Love Triangle record, LoFi and totally DIY sounding; musically they aren’t a million miles away either, although I’d stop short of making a direct comparison. This may not be a super digitally perfect recording, but that’s a good thing and this sounds great all dirty and distorted, that way the energy shines through and carries you along for the ride. The female/male vocals work a treat and the crashing drums give this a sense of chaos, which is another big plus point. It’s good stuff and you should not only pick up this record, but also their 7” on Static Shock.
Grave Mistake: PO Box 12482, Richmond, VA 23241, USA - www.gravemistakerecords.com (Tony)
CARPENTER "Sea To Sky" CD Goldstock/Paper + Plastick
Even though this flies a little close to all those sound alike / look alike / terrible haircut (so speaketh an old bald man) bands at times, it stands head and shoulders above for several reasons, the main one being - claiming John Cougar's "American Fool" album as an inspiration. I can vividly remember sitting in Paula's (my wife) bedroom all those years ago listening to said album with her and rocking the fuck out! We loved it, and I have his "words & music: Greatest Hits" on my iPod to this day, so yeah, they get my vote. And knowing this, you can definitely hear that inspiration in several of the songs, these guys know how to ROCK! If I've scared the bejaysus out of you so far (I know Tony will be twitching), the RIYL on the promo sheet uses HWM and Texas is the Reason as examples and I wouldn't disagree with either. 10 songs, and all of them are excellent, as is the production, and the vocals are a real strong point I think. And these guys are walking the walk too, supporting independent farmers in Canada and Canadian Organic Growers and other similar things, spot on! The whole album is getting better and better with each listen, highly recommended.
Goldstock: www.goldstockrecords.com / Paper + Plastick: www.paperandplastick.com (si)
CAREER SUICIDE “Cherry Beach” 7” Dirtnap
So, back in 2008 Career Suicide came over to the UK and Ireland, and apart from being absolutely fantastic, they brought with them a hastily released three track 7” to sell on that tour. Now, three years later this gets a proper release thanks to Dirtnap records. One of the tracks that appeared on that tour 7”, the cover “Not Your Soul”, isn’t here, but you do get two brand new Career Suicide songs to compliment the title track and “Double Life” which were on that original record. The two new songs may not be as fast as the songs on “Attempted Suicide”, but they are still great, and it is really good to have a new Career Suicide record.
Dirtnap: www.dirtnaprecs.com (Tony)
CHEMICAL THREAT “They Don’t Care” CD Label?
In the past I have tried to be kind to C.T. but they don’t seem to be able to move on from mundane and predictable ultimately! This is thirteen tracks of UK82 style punk that lacks any imagination and energy! I wish they would work on three or four good tunes and decent lyrics for a well recorded EP! They write serious lyrics so why don’t they back that up by getting serious about their music! I want to be bias because they are from my home town of Southampton and I’ve known singer John for years. But I’d be going beyond bias into the ridiculous if I said this was anything but a plod through the below average!
Chemical Threat: www.myspace.com/thechemicalthreat (Gaz)
CITIZEN FISH “Goods” CD Alternative Tentacles
Can't quite believe its been 10 years since the release of Citizen Fish's last full length album, the excellent “Life Size”! So, in that time has anything changed? My answer would be 'No'... The Citizen Fish brand of ska/punk is the one of the few versions that keeps me interested to be honest. In my blinkered world of three chords and shouting the odds punk music there is little room for maneuver, but the ever energetic Dick Lucas and his merry band sporting trumpets and trombones alongside the customary strings and percussion have managed to do it for me. Thirteen tracks of meaningful words and music hit the spot and although I still favour “Life Size” as their best work to date, this is going to lead to a photo finish in the end for me. How does Dick do it time and again with this band and the Subhumans? Who knows; but thankfully he shows no signs of wanting to give it all up and neither to the rest of the band.
Alternative Tentacles: PO Box 419092, San Francisco, CA 94141-9092, USA - www.alternativetentacles.com (Gaz)
COKE BUST “Degradation” 7” Grave Mistake
Wow, this certainly takes your breath away right from the start. I’m not a huge fan of blast beats, and those are featured quite a lot here, but while that may not be my favourite thing, there is a lot more to these songs than that, and although it didn’t hit me right away there was enough about it to keep me coming back for more, to the point where I now think this is a really good EP; the last 13 seconds of the title track is just brilliant, and there are even some hooks in amongst the hardcore fury. I think the original pressing came out in Poland on a different label with a different sleeve, but the music is the same, and Grave Mistake are a cool label.
Grave Mistake: www.gravemistakerecords.com (Tony)
CONTEMPT / RAM MAN “Decay/Death Technology” Split CD
The last couple of times I’ve managed to catch Contempt live I’ve really enjoyed them. In fact I’d go as far as to say that live is the best place to hear them! That’s not to say that their records aren’t good because that’s not the case, they are! I just think that with some bands their energy does not get captured in a studio the way it is live and Contempt may be one of those bands. Anyways, their half of this split CD finds them on good form none the less and although they came spinning out of the 80’s punk scene they still appeal and know that punk bands still need to have something to say! Ram Man are new to me but I like their hard hitting, fast and furious style. They will not score to many originality points with to many people but how many punk bands do these days? They are out there and they are doing it! Not sat at a computer being subjected to the views of one person! Shit that’s me!!!
Contempt: www.contemptuk.com/ (Gaz)
CULTURE SHOCK “Everything” CD Bluurg / Active
I have been looking forward to this ever since Gaz told me it was in the pipeline. I can remember when Culture Shock emerged out of the ashes of Subhumans, A-Heads and Organised Chaos; the chance to hear new new stuff from Dick and co was something both Gaz and me were excited about. I don’t remember being surprised by the change in direction to a more ska influenced sound, but maybe that was because what Culture Shock were playing was bright and catchy and had Dick’s great vocal and lyrical style, also, at that point the world hadn’t been infested by a million and one pseudo ska-punk bands; Culture Shock didn’t even use a brass section. Anyway, this package comes with three CDs - the first has “Go Wild” and “All The TIme”, the second “Onwards & Upwards” and the third their two demos “Living History” and “Reality Stop No.44” - plus a booklet containing all the lyrics and a band history told using answers to fanzine questions. This is a quality release, and I haven’t stopped playing it since it arrived.
Bluurg: http://www.subhumans.co.uk / Active: http://www.activedistribution.org (Tony)
DEAF MUTATIONS “Crash The Clubs” 7” Static Shock
Any band that features two members of Career Suicide has to be good right? Right, Jonah Falco’s distinctive guitar style is always a pleasure to hear and Dave Brown swaps his drums for a microphone to bark at you. The result is great; three fast, noisy, angry sounding punk rock blasts of energy. The title track is so good, it reminds me of N/N, there’s a simple, melodic feel to it, but the vocals are harsh and spat out; it works perfectly. The other two songs are faster and more chaotic, but the three songs together make for a great EP, and the sound of the recording suits it perfectly. This originally came out a couple of years ago as a limited cassette release, so it’s great that Static Shock have given it a vinyl release.
Static Shock: http://staticshockrecords.blogspot.com/ (Tony)
THE DESTRUCTORS / DUN2DEF “Wohlgefuhl” Split CD Rowdy Farrago
I think I’m at the point now that as much as I like them I’m almost dreading a copy of a Destructors release arriving for review! I’m not sure what there is left that I can say about them? Tuneful punk rock with something to say, often based on a theme if you look at some of their past releases! This split with Milton Keynes punks Dun2Def is just one of many a CD that The Destructors have filled with some great songs of their own and covers of many a great band – punk or otherwise. It could be argued that this is their first split album as many have been split EPs but that’s not making it any easier on this reviewer! The criteria for this spilt is mainly original songs with each band having to cover one of the others and a cover besides. Anyways, The Destructors on this outing give a great account of themselves and as ever combine good ideas with music. Dun2Def keep their half of the bargain too, tuneful and meaningful punk rock that’s easy to listen to and at the end cover one of my favourite Destructors songs “Forces Of Law” with their acoustic 2011 version! A quality booklet that covers most of the lyrics over the eighteen tracks with some smart artwork that makes punk the visual experience it should be comes with the CD too.
The Destructors: www.destructors.co.uk (Gaz)
THE DESTRUCTORS “Media Studies” CD Rowdy Farrago
I was thinking to myself the other day - "Hmm! Not seen another Destructors release for a few months!" Well; who are they to let the me down? Only a day or two after that brief thought and their latest offering hits my doormat. Twelve tracks given over to their view of the media and the views of others in the three covers contained within the twelve. Although my favourite track has to be “TV Wars” which is an old Destructors track that only ever appeared on a demo (long before their 2005 reformation) according to the write up I received with this CD. Look out for this release and its scuzz Detroit garage punk rock sound all the way from Peterborough! It's a good one and worth it for the line "Who gives a toss about Jonathan Ross' that one time punk as he likes to tell us!
Destructors: destructors666.com or myspace.com/thedestructorsuk (Gaz)
THE DISRUPTERS “Generation Retard” CD Overground
For those of you that don’t know, The Disrupters kicked off their punk journey way back in 1980. They first gave it all up in 1988 but singer Steve Hansell reformed them in 2007 and they have been going ever since then. Although Steve is the only original member left, this album, their first for 25 years shows that nothing in the way of spirit has been lost over the years. In fact, this is easily the most intense stuff they have ever put out and the subjects their songs cover are as political as all those years ago. They have their roots in the anarcho-punk scene and although the early 1980’s was a generation ago now, sadly things with religion and the abuse of power are as bad as they have ever been. The Disrupters have carried on where they left off with their message even though the style of music has changed but that’s to be expected as band members change. For those of you old enough to remember their early albums and the ‘punk poetry’ provided by Prem Nick’ – well he’s kept the faith to and appears on this album too! To sum up, in the write up I received with this CD singer Steve says “In places it is a dark album, but we live in dark times” All lyrics included.
Overground: www.overgroundrecords.co.uk or disrupters@btinternet.com (Gaz)
DANIEL G. HARMANN & THE TROUBLE STARTS "Risk" CD Burning Building
This is some top class "moody" "atmospheric" Indie Rock, harkening back to great bands like Mineral and their ilk, songs that tend to build and build and then come crashing down. The vocals make me think of some 80's UK pop bands but I'm not sure who or why? Also bands like Idlewild and Snow Patrol come to mind and some early Deep Elm bands. 11 tracks and pretty varied, some mellower, some more rocking. This is apparently their 6th release! Seems like they must be pretty prolific, though I think a few maybe just solo stuff. Spot on production and excellent artwork finish it off very nicely indeed. A thoroughly enjoyable listen.
Burning Building: www.bbrecordings.com (si)
DEEP SLEEP “Turn Me Off” CD Grave Mistake
This is good stuff; fast yet melodic with good vocals. It reminds me of the sort of thing that was coming out when hardcore bands went a bit more melodic in the late ‘80s; there’s something of a Dag Nasty feel to this, and the first Shades Apart album that keeps coming to mind, although this is faster (mind you the start to “Another Me” is pure SLF). Capital is a contemporary band that you could make comparisons with, but Deep Sleep are more in your face and more appealing, and if I’m in the mood for melodic punk rock then I’d choose this every time. I love the line, “I play a record cause I don’t want to die, I play another and it keeps me alive” from “Play Another”; I remember at times of personal despair that music was often my saviour. “Be With You” is another song that I feel some connection with. I’ve been playing this a lot and it sounds better with each play, it’s certainly something I’ll be giving some serious playing time to.
Grave Mistake: www.gravemistakerecords.com (Tony)
THE DESTRUCTORS “11.11.11 (IN MEMORIUM)” CD Rowdy Farrago
Did they bring this out special for my birthday? No, of course not! This is the sixth year in a row that the totally prolific recording machine that is The Destructors have brought out a release for the day that all the days, months and years match up! The theme this time is not unsurprisingly 'Rememberence Day' and some of the most hard hitting, anti-war Destructors tunes I've probably heard from their many releases over recent years! In fact, this is adding up to one of their best and thats quite a bold thing to say when you've reviewed as much of their stuff that I have! They have put many of their own songs on this eleven track CD but in true Destructors style they have covered other bands stuff that is relevant. They have put their mark on one of punks finest anti-war songs in 'Generals' by GBH and Toxic Reasons 'War Hero' and blown the dust off one of their old tunes from the 1980's - 'Soldier Boy' which is still a good song 30 years on. All lyrics supplied in the booklet with the CD which again contains some great artwork and is something you'll never have with a download!
The Destructors: www.destructors.co.uk (Gaz)
DON’T LOOK DOWN / THE DESTRUCTORS “Je Suis Radio” Split CD Rowdy Farrago
Coming up for three in the morning as I review this CD… But not a yawn to be had as Don’t Look Down and The Destructors blow away my insomnia! Well actually I’m on my break during the night shift but there’s no one here tonight to complain about the music and it’s infinitely preferable to some shite radio station playing those sad and soppy hits you’d have danced to at a disco way back when even the Destructors were young! OK... Don’t Look Down! I really like em, that’s for sure! Imagine if you will Leatherface, Youth Brigade and a bit of the Damned all rolled up together! No? Well it’s your loss as they are a refreshing band and the pick of their three tracks on here is “The Duvet Song”. The Destructors do their customary three songs and one of their tunes from the early 1980’s hidden on the end and uncredited! I’m not going to guess the title but it’s a great re-recording of one of the songs that got me into them all those years ago when I had few cares! The other three tracks for followers of the Destructors are “Good Guys”, “Roadrunner” which is a Jonathan Richman song and an all new Destructors tune called “Trash Man” in that scuzz garage punk sound as they call it – Quality stuff from two quality Peterborough punk bands.
The Destructors: www.destructors666.com/ (Gaz)
EASTFIELD “Detonation Junction” CD 26014
I’ve seen Eastfield on quite a few occasions over the years but oddly enough I brought this new album at a gig where I got there late and missed them (Nothing new there!). That aside my soft spot for the band comes from their ‘rail’ orientation! They remind me of Blyth Power and they also like their trains. Tuneful and with something to say, Eastfield are very hard to dislike ultimately and I like their basic honesty and style.
Eastfield: www.eastfieldrailpunk.co.uk (Gaz)
ENDLESS GRINNING SKULLS s/t LP Viral Age
A new band featuring members of Geriatric Unit, but with a sound that although just as fast has more of a Discharge influence. That’s not to say this band are just another D-Beat band, because they certainly aren’t, and although there is a Discharge feel to this album, there is a lot more to EGS than that, and definitely more depth to these songs. Not only that, but in amongst all the super fast brutal punk rock there is even some melody. Lyrically they savage politicians, the conditions the poor are left to live in, war and other delights of our modern world. It’s an in your face, blistering assault that comes in a quality Crass style fold out, black and white poster sleeve; the whole thing is well thought through and superbly executed.
Endless Grinning Skulls: endlessgrinningskulls@hotmail.co.uk (Tony)
EPIC PROBLEM demo self released
Epic Problem is the new band put together by Mackie from Blitz, and after interviewing him, and getting to know him a bit I was really looking forward to hearing what he was going to come up with. I was also a little apprehensive, I mean, I love Blitz, their records hold so many memories for me and after finding that Mackie is such a nice guy I really wanted to like this. Luckily it’s pretty damn great, and was a hit right away; melodic punk songs with gruff vocals that have a real Leatherface sound; although Mackie plays both bass and guitar, he has got a proper drummer, so none of that drum machine nonsense, and a great vocalist too. The guitar sound is probably the only thing that hints at Blitz as this has a really contemporary feel to it. When I first got the demo I had it on repeat for a good few days, and now a month or so on I’m still playing it pretty regularly. This is available to download for free from the SD website, right where you are now, so you have no excuse, go get it.
Epic Problem: http://www.myspace.com/epicproblem.com / epicproblem2010@live.co.uk (Tony)
THE ERGS! “Thrash Compactor” 7” Grave Mistake / Firestarter
Normally The Ergs aren’t a band that I often find myself listening to, they’re the sort of band that I like, but not enough to make them regulars on my turntable; but I love this one sided 7”. Four of these songs were recorded in 2003 with the other in 2007, and they are all straight ahead, fantastic thrashy punk rock gems; only one is over a minute long, with one lasting less than ten seconds. It’s all uplifting and totally great, and there’s something immensely satisfying about listening to super short, super fast punk rock. I could listen to this stuff all day.
Grave Mistake: PO Box 12482, Richmond, VA 23241, USA - www.gravemistakerecords.com (Tony)
THE FANNY PADS “Two Sides To Every Story” CD TFP
OK here’s the story; I went to see the Subhumans in Ipswich (10.08.11) and got talking to TFP singer Flocky as he was minding the Subhumans merch and I was plying the sparse crowd with back issues of SD… TFP played but due to my ‘Tour de Ipswich’ I missed them! Anyways this CD was released in 2007 but Flocky kindly bunged me a free copy and in return I said I’d give it a review. I think he said they’ve got a new album to record so look out for that but for now this is it; The Fanny Pads, What’s in a name? In this case it’s not a lot! TFP have a no-nonsense approach to politics with their brand of punk and if you like your punk smooth with some frills chucked in then your probably barking up the wrong tree here! Fifteen short and sharp tracks with none of the rough edges filed down I’d say! They call it as they see it (or any other cliché you wanna use along those lines). Good stuff overall with all the lyrics supplied in a very punk rock booklet! Urrgghhhhh Yeh!!!!
The Fanny Pads: www.thefannypads.co.uk (Gaz)
GOVERNMENT ISSUE “Boycott Stabb Complete Session” LP Dischord
This album starts with “Hall Of Fame”, my favourite GI song, and every time it never fails to blow me away. If one song captures everything that was great about GI at the time this record was originally recorded, 1982, it this one; great bass intro, pic slide then we’re off, and the energy surges out of the speakers. That song sets the tone, and “Boycott Stabb” still sounds as great as it always did, the years haven’t taken the edge off this at all, in fact it still sounds fresh and exciting and still fills me with joy; the guitar sound is perfect. I think punk rock needs to stay relevant, and keep growing, but I rarely hear new stuff that fills me such enthusiasm. The tracks on side one of this are the original 12” tracks, over on side B is out takes and extra tracks recorded in the same session and are equally as good. I’m a sucker for stuff like this, both to complete the picture and have bonus stuff to listen to.
Dischord: www.dischord.com (Tony)
GREAT CYNICS "Don't Need Much" CD Household Name
This is a great album of early Against Me! type tunes but done in a more English style, due mainly to the fact that they're English I think. Saw them play a while back, when they were just Cynics and were a one man and his acoustic band, and enjoyed them, but things have come on a lot since then. They are now a 3 piece band and all the better for it, and after many listens and letting the songs sink in I have been really enjoying sitting through the entire album and feeling all the better for it, it's very much a "feelgood"album, uplifting and full of great personal lyrics that beg to be sung along to very loudly. I very much look forward to seeing them live again that's for sure.
Household Name: www.householdnamerecords.net (si)
GRIPPER / THE DESTRUCTORS “Les Fleur du Mal” CD Rowdy farrago
The totally prolific Destructors are here again with another split CD! First up are the four tracks from New Zealand’s Gripper! As the write up says that came with this CD, “Gripper are ugly punk rock” and fronted by ex-Destructors singer Neil Singleton from their (1980-83) incarnation! I can’t capture the band with much else really; this is four ugly tracks and no doubt ugly lyrics if the song “Cunty Nose” is anything to go by! The Destructors provide their usual mix of old, new and covers amongst their four offerings. First up is “Neutron Bomb” an oldie and faster than I remember the original, second is “Reality” a cover by old fave’s here at SD, Chron Gen. Next comes a new one “Third World War” which is a fair track and lastly “Bombs are Mental” which is another Destructors oldie re-worked and delivered in fine style. It’s hard to know where to go with Destructors reviews as they can be a mix of so many things, as they always say about themselves, The Destructors are a scuzz garage punk rock band from Peterborough in the UK. It’s all Punk to me though.
The Destructors: www.myspace.com/thedestructorsuk (Gaz)
THE HAUNTED CONTINENTS "The Loudest Year Ever" CD Forrest Park Recordings
Oh boy this is the good stuff! Indie Rock at it's very bestest, but with a strong Doo Wop/Rock 'n' Roll kind of vibe. The main man, they're only a 2 piece, James Downe (ex Call It Arson), said he was struggling to find his mojo till he heard The Platters’ "The Great Pretender" and "the story starts from there" and you can hear where he's coming from. There's a good bit of Weezer in here and I also hear a lot of a Barenaked Ladies kind of thing in the more mellow tunes. 10 tracks and all of them are truly excellent, the vocals are really well "sung" with a bit of the old vibrato and that Chris Martin breaking kind of thing as well, it fits the music spot on. Top drawer production and a really great card fold out CD holder with ace artwork. This has been on heavy rotation for a good while.
Forrest Park Rcordings: www.thehauntedcontinents.com (si)
KISMET HC “Songs Of Strife” CD Kismet HC/Active
Angry, thrashy and political are the nuts and bolts of this KHC release! It's all been done before, it's all been said before, but somehow there seems to be a need to certainly keep saying it! Musically I wanted more but KHC seem to be a driven bunch and the ferocity of their delivery is quite frightening at times and you can be sure they mean it! Eleven songs and all the lyrics come with the CD too!
Kismet HC: myspace.com/kismethardcore (Gaz)
THE LADIES “Six More Reasons To Hate...” 7” Grave Mistake
I’ve read a few reviews of this where everyone mentions The Dwarves, and sleaze and all seem to revel in those aspects; well I’ve never been much of a fan of either The Dwarves or sleazy nonsense. However, neither of those things changes what I originally thought of this; it reminds me of some of the earliest punk bands, those bands that were plugging away on the pub rock circuit then cut their hair and threw away their flares when punk exploded and speeded up their songs. And I liked a lot of those bands because the energy was there and that’s what I was looking for at that time. These songs have that energy, and I can imagine that they really kick it live. The lyrics haven’t really cut through, which is probably just as well as I guess they are “tongue in cheek”, which is another way of saying “a bit dull”. If you want heads down, straight ahead, beer soaked rocking punk then The Ladies deliver it as good as anyone, and musically these songs are catchy as hell.
Grave Mistake: PO Box 12482, Richmond, VA 23241, USA - www.gravemistakerecords.com (Tony)
LEBAKKO”En Tullut Toistamaan Tarinaa” 7” PML
When this arrived with a Turku, Finland post mark I fully expected it to be from my friend Jallu, and I have to admit to my heart sinking a little when I opened the package and it wasn’t from him, and he hadn’t sent me the latest 1981 EP. However, as soon as I played the record I wasn’t disappointed anymore. The A side is an up tempo, tuneful, glorious noise; crashing drums, a repetitive bass line and trebly guitars that really hit the spot. The vocals are barked out in Finnish, and I can’t understand a word of it, but I don’t care, it’s catchy as hell and truly wonderful. The B side isn’t as quick, but it is just as great, and just as catchy. They keep the songs simple and they’re over in a flash, and with the rough production it all works together perfectly. The line drawing sleeve art reminds me a little of the very early Adam & The Ants artwork, and makes this great visually as well as sonically.
Lebakko: lebakko@gmail.com (Tony)
THE LOVE TRIANGLE “Splendid Living” 7” Dire
Great, great, great; this is the sort of stuff I love, I search out those compilations of obscure late ‘70s UK punk rock, and this reminds me of one of those gems long forgotten by most, but to adored by me. But, having said that, and even though this has that lo-fi sound, this doesn’t sound dated, it sounds fresh and exciting and gives me exactly the sort of feeling I used to get hearing all those great singles for the first time back in 1979; “Orgasms In Space” even starts off sounding like it might turn into a Rezillos song. Of course, you know that The Love Triangle feature Tim and Louis from The Shitty Limits, and these songs aren’t a million miles away from their sound, but that’s just fine with me, I can’t get enough of this sort of thing; there’s nothing better. My only problem with this is that there are only three songs and despite that being just about perfect for a record like this, I want more, more, more.
Dire: www.direrecords.com (Tony)
NIGHT BIRDS s/t 7” Grave Mistake / Dirtnap
Oh my, how great is this record? Remember the excitement of listening to Dead Kennedys and Agent Orange for the first time? Well I’m getting those exact same feelings listening to this; great early US Hardcore style with a surfy guitar sound that either of those bands mentioned would be proud of. Four storming songs and one surftastic instrumental make up one of the best 7” records I’ve heard for a long time. I have been playing this pretty much non-stop since it arrived, and because it came with a download code, I can take it with me wherever I go. I love it that records still affect me this way; I am in punk rock heaven.
Grave Mistake: PO Box 12482, Richmond, VA 23241, USA - www.gravemistakerecords.com (Tony)
NIGHT BIRDS “MIdnight Movies” 7” No Way
I hadn’t heard Night Birds before getting their their self titled 7”, but that blew me away and had me wanting more and more and more. Well, here’s some more, and I’m not disappointed; the title tracks is an infectious surf inspired punk rock gem that was an instant favourite. Over on the B-side are three more great offerings, all with a movie theme and all damn catchy, although “Bad Biology” is probably the one that hooks you in. This is just great so hunt it down, and while you’re at it grab everything else they’ve done too.
No Way: www.nowayrecords.com (Tony)
NIGHT BIRDS “Fresh Kills Vol.1” CD Grave Mistake
Here it is, all the current Night Birds recorded output in one place, re-mastered and sounding just great. There’s something special about this band, they know how to play punk rock that looks to the past, but feels totally up to date and “now”; it’s energetic and addictive stuff. By now you should know that this band plays surf inspired punk rock that brings to mind Dead Kennedys, Agent Orange, Adolescents and so on, all great bands of course and if there is any justice in this punk rock world of ours Night Birds will end up being thought of in much the same light. My only problem with his is that the B-side of “Killer Waves” is the last track and not the second one, but then that’s just me and my need to keep things collected together; what really matters is that it’s all here and all readily available. I can’t tell you how excited I am that there’s going to be a Night Birds album later this year.
Grave Mistake: www.gravemistakerecords.com (Tony)
OFF! “Compared To What / Rotten Apple” 7” Southern Lord
This is a chunky little package, thick card sleeve and weighty vinyl makes for a very satisfying release; and that’s before you get to the music. Obviously, this is OFF! so you know what to expect, and they don’t disappoint; both songs are short and to the point, and although not blisteringly fast they pack as much of a punch as a lot of bands struggle to muster in a whole album. They’re damn catchy too, and the line “I’m the rotten apple on your family tree” sticks in my head for days every time I play this record. I love this band.
Southern Lord: PO Box 291967, LA, CA 90029, USA (Tony)
BEN PARCELL “Humble Beginnings" CD By The Sea
I have known Ben for many years, I tried to influence him with the music I listened to, which I think I did to a certain extent, Ben chose a path of melody, whilst I chose the more noise laden path, cutting his teeth locked away in his room listening to The Ataris, The Beatles, Elvis Costello, The Movie Life etc. Learning to play guitar and experimenting with sounds & chords. Ben had local success with his pop punk outfit, The Trailers, they played in and around the East Yorkshire area frequently building up a solid base of followers, packing shows and displaying tight sets, a self released CD followed. Fast forward a few years, The Trailers long disbanded, Ben continued, progressing and finding a penchant of penning a sad love song with killer melody and emotive vocals, you can almost taste the pain. Ben croons a fine tune and self produced a full album of songs about ex girlfriends, broken hearts and that one girl that is out of reach, 10 songs of beautiful works of music, lovingly layered with keyboards in places, drums & bass, all played by Ben crafted intelligently making the songs really stand out, giving them depth. Kudos to Ben for completely playing all instruments, writing, recording, producing and financing this CD. A couple of reworked Trailers songs are featured, tuned down, but in whole this really is a breathtaking CD, a testament to DIY ethos and a man’s dream that is only until now, slowly coming to fruition and being heard further afield. If soothing acoustic heart-soaked songs are your bag, I strongly suggest you pick this up.
Ben Parcell: www.benparcell.com (Paul Fox)
PET MILK “Philadelphia Punklife” download
This Philadelphia band has Paint It Black guitarist Josh playing drums; now there are two things I need to say after that: 1) This doesn’t sound anything like PiB. 2) This is really good. These songs would be more at home on the C86 comp than the “Philadelphia Sound” comp as Pet Milk are total indie pop greatness, and catchy as hell. This reminds me of bands like The Primitives and The Darling Buds with a little Shop Assistants thrown in as well, and I’ve been playing these four songs over and over this week. As far as I know this is just available as a download from their bandcamp page, but it is only $3, making it less than £2 for us Brits, so what have you got to lose?
Pet Milk: http://petmilk.bandcamp.com/ (Tony)
POCKET GENIUS "Nordic" CD Boss Tuneage
A blast from the past! These guys' last release was 10 years ago and here they are back again without missing a beat. Some more top notch Indie Rock sounding like several bands from days of yore, ie The Doughboys and The Replacements with a hint of Social Distortion and The Goo Goo Dolls in places and sounding really big and powerful and full of vigour and totally "current". All the afore mentioned bands are big faves of mine and so as you can imagine this is really floating my boat in a big way, 11 songs that make up a really strong album that demands to be played over and over. Another great UK label with another truly great release!
Boss Tuneage: PO Box 74, Sandy, SG19 2WB - www.bosstuneage.com (si)
RESISTANCE 77 “Survival Of The Richest” R27 Recordings
If any of you are interested, Resistance 77 were interviewed in the first ever issue of Suspect Device! This was on the strength of their first LP “Thoroughbred Men” which both Tony, my SD co-writer, and me loved and still retains a special place in our punk rock soaked hearts! Twenty seven years later I’m sat at a laptop computer when back then it was a manual Adler typewriter my Dad had got from work as the first basic computers were put on his desk. In those twenty seven years technology has gone into the stratosphere as R77 bassist Kieron got back in touch with us via the internet and kindly sent me their new CD “Survival of the Richest”. But what about R77 in the last twenty seven years? Well they split not long after they did that interview for us but have been back together for a few years now, with two original members, bassist Kieron and singer Oddy, and they have not relied on the old stuff either! They still know how to write a good tune or two and keep the subjects they sing about sometimes political, sometimes personal but always so you can join in the chorus. The thirteen tracks on this album prove that you can thrive on a tried and tested formula especially when you’ve got nothing to prove other than that staying true to your beginnings keeps it real. The more I play this album the more I like it and the connection to their first album is just great, stirring up memories of all those hours I spent with Tony at the Adler or reviewing records drinking his Dad’s homebrew. Worth getting it just for the track “Hate” alone if you ask me!
Resistance 77: www.resistance77.com (Gaz)
RIPCORD “The Damage Is Done” 7” Boss Tuneage
To celebrate 25 years since Ripcord released this EP, as a flexi, Boss T put it out on lovely, thick black vinyl. I don’t own the original, but I do have a copy of the songs, and I have to say they sound a lot better here, and the drums sound a lot less like cardboard boxes. Nine tracks of UK hardcore that shows influences from UK82, metal and USHC; it’s not all blindingly fast, but it is the fast songs that I like best, so it’s the A side of the record I’m drawn to. The lyrics are typical ‘80s condemnations of Thatcher, animal cruelty and impending nuclear destruction. The sleeve is a faithful reproduction too. This wasn’t my favourite style then, and it’s not now, but I do like the simplistic feel and youthful energy, and it’s good to have this on record at last.
Boss Tuneage: www.bosstuneage.com (Tony)
RUN, FOREVER "The Devil, And Death, And Me" CD Solidarity Recordings
This has been getting some right hammer lately, a rollicking good album to be sure! It's sounds a bit Against Me!, but with a real heavy dose of a more punk rock Bright Eyes, the singer also having a similar sounding voice to Conner Oberst, that's what I reckon anyway. The first track, "A Sequence of Sad Events", is an absolute belter, and refers to a former band mate who died, aged 21, something I feel a strong affinity to unfortunately. And the album is dedicated to him also. It's a very varied collection of 10 songs, from full on fist in the air barnstormers to quiet acoustic numbers but not a dud amongst them, the production is maybe a little "muddy" sounding but if anything that only makes it all the better I think. Lyrics sound very good though they're not printed out. Really cool, simple artwork finishes it off nicely.
Solidarity Recordings: 2509 Tolworth Dr., San Jose, CA 95128, USA - www.solidarityrecordings.com (si)
SEPTIC PSYCHOS “Two Wrongs Make a Riot” CDEP Multi Label release
For a band that never put out anything other than a couple of tracks on a compilation back in the 80's the Septic Psychos have made up for that over the last couple of years since reforming! This EP is their latest fast, furious and loud offering that has a right good go at the church and bankers to name a few! Protest is still alive! Rather sadly it's coming from some senior members of the punk scene like us here at SD but hopefully we can influence the youth to take a look and see that things are as bad now as Thatcher ever made them!
Septic Psychos: www.septicpsychos.co.uk (Gaz)
THE SHIRKS “Cry Cry Cry” 7” Grave Mistake
A new band to me and I know nothing about them on the evidence of this, I like them, a lot! High energy punk rock that reminds me of both The Saints and The Kids; driving, exhilarating and impossible to play just once, multiple plays are mandatory. This is the sort of record that made punk rock so appealing to me in the first place, and kept me coming back for more and more. I like the band’s name too, in fact the only criticism I have is that there are only three tracks.
Grave Mistake: www.gravemistakerecords.com (Tony)
SKIDS “The Singles Collection 1978-1981” CD Boxset Captain Oi
This is done in the same format as the UK Subs one that I raved about in SD53; two CDs and a booklet in a nice box. As the title suggests, this is all the tracks that appeared on Skids singles, including those that only appeared on 12” versions, and a fine collection of songs it is too. The Skids have always been favourites, for both Gaz and me; personally this band have been with me almost from the start of my punk rock voyage. Being released early in 1979, “Into The Valley” was one of the first singles I bought, but I was certainly aware of Skids before then. I bought the records as they came out from then on, and also went back to get two of the three released before then. I also bought the LPs, but for me the Skids were always a singles band and I think the most played of their albums for me when in my later teens was “Fanfare”, itself a singles collection. Thirty three tracks span the two CDs and include a couple of songs I don’t have, and some I hadn’t played for years. There’s something about the Skids that really hits the spot for me, it’s probably the twin attack of Stuart Adamson’s unique guitar style and sound and Richard Jobson’s strong yet often unintelligible vocals. Even as my musical tastes veered more towards the speed and intensity of hardcore I’ve kept playing these songs; every time I go to the football I hear “The Saints Are Coming”, which U2 and Green Day could never match, and just the day before this arrived I had been singing along to “Circus Games” in the car. They were a great band and this is a wonderful release.
Captain Oi: www.captainoi.com (Tony)
SOUTHSIDE STRANGLERS “Too Much TV” 7” Grave Mistake / Vicious Circle
To start with I wasn’t into this EP, despite Southside Stranglers featuring two members of Government Warning. It was a little too rock for these ears, and I put it to one side and concentrated on the other Grave Mistake releases. Now I have it on repeat and it’s worming its way into my brain; true it is very rocky, but it’s more in a garage punk way rather than a straight rock way, and there is an energy to the songs that I’m finding hard to resist. I’m not sure that this will ever be a favourite, but I’m sure I will dig it out and listen to it again.
Grave Mistake: PO Box 12482, Richmond, VA 23241, USA - www.gravemistakerecords.com (Tony)
SUNS "Close Calls In The U.S. Space Program / The Howl And The Many" EP's CD Self Released
A peculiar one this, it's 2 separate EPs but released on one CD? But hey who are we to question, am I right? The promo sheet says it was intended to be one album but the band felt it needed to be two separate "pieces", fair enough. So we have 2 EPs, "Close Calls In The U.S. Space Program" has 5 tracks and "The Howl And The Many" has 4 tracks and these all make up the first recordings the band have made together. Generally speaking these chaps are making music in an experimental meandering Indie Rock kind of way, in the same ballpark as Radiohead maybe. The band came together from several other Chicago bands, originally formed by guitarist/vocalist Mikey Russell but it seems to contain a few multi instrumentalists and 2 drummers! So you get a full and varied array of sounds within, but there is quite a sparse sound throughout too. It's all pretty mellow and nothing really jumps out and grabs me songwise but it's an enjoyable and interesting listen to be sure.
Self Released: www.suns.bandcamp.com (si)
THINKING MACHINES "Work Tapes" CD TMvFM
Another band from Philly, how many are there? These guys are doing the post punk/noisy Indie thing and they do it well. Quite disjointed but also still melodic throughout, manic offbeat drumming and dischordant guitars are played off against tuneful vocals and back ups with a real deep bass rumbling away driving it along. I'm reminded of a few Dischord bands and they also seem to have quite a UK sound to them I think? The band has been around quite a while, their self titled first album was released in 2001, and have several other releases I am told.
TMvFM: www.myspace.com/tmvfm (si)
TIN HORN PRAYER "Get Busy Dying" CD Bermuda Mohawk Productions
This band is apparently ex several other pretty well known bands; The Blackout Pact, Only Thunder, Ghost Buffalo, Love Me Destroyer, Pinhead Circus but here they are trying something a tad different musically ie. Americana/folk type stuff. It kind of sounds to me like maybe later HWM with a strong country tinge? And maybe Murder By Death type stuff. There's lots of banjo and mandolin amongst the guitars and rabble rousing 10 tracks, though several are slower and more maudlin sounding. It's not like it's something that hasn't been done many times before by people from the punk/hardcore scene but these guys do it well and the really strong songwriting makes for a good album indeed.
Bermuda Mohawk Productions: www.bermudamohawkproductions.com (si)
UK SUBS “Work In Progress” CD Captain Oi
I had high hopes for this, in fact I’d go as far to say that I don’t think I’ve actually been anticipating the release of a UK Subs album quite as much since “Endangered Species” was imminent. The “Warhead” EP from a couple of years ago, and their last studio album, “Universal”, were probably the best Subs releases not featuring Nicky Garrett, and now with drummer Jamie Oliver and guitarist Jet in the band it’s almost as if the Subs have been given a new lease of life as both have injected drive and power to the Subs. Kicking things off is the excellent “Creation”, which was also on that “Warhead” EP; it’s a bit of a belter and, as it turns out, the album’s stand-out song. Unfortunately this album never really hits those highs again; it’s not that it’s a bad album, just not the stormer I was hoping for. Apart from the opener it’s only really “Hell Is Other People” that sticks in my head, and I just feel that the pace of the album is a little too slow, whereas “Universal” and “Warhead” both felt urgent and exciting. I think this album features Alvin Gibbs too, so all the ingredients are there, so you never know this could turn out to be a grower. Maybe I was expecting too much?
Captain Oi: www.captainoi.com (Tony)
VISIONS OF CHANGE/THE DEPRAVED Split CD Boss Tuneage
It’s not that often these days what with one thing and another that I can actually say I’m looking forward to getting a new release but this is one of those releases! At my age now I’m trying so hard to seek out new and exciting punk bands that float my boat and not keep looking back to my teens which were such an exciting time musically for me. Well, try as I might, I’m looking back, again, with these two bands; back to the mid-1980’s to be precise. At this time in UK punk history some of the second wave of British bands were beginning to run out of steam or morph into something else beyond their original manifesto. The Depraved (to cut a long story short!) morphed into Visions of Change, but before they did they released what I think were two great LPs in the form of “Come on Down” in 1985 and “Stupidity Maketh the Man” in 1986. They might have come in at the end of an era with their contribution but it's a valuable contribution all the same! In fact they benefited from the influence of the American punk (or hardcore if you prefer) bands that were starting to become very popular at this time and the pace of their music reflects this unlike the near plod of some of their early UK82 punk influences. Their LPs are raw and unsophisticated but had bags of energy with something to say and had The Depraved hit the UK scene a few years earlier they might have made a bigger impact, especially if they had been a No Future or Riot City band!
Visions of Change came about as the UK punk scene began to change and members of The Depraved wanted to move their ideas on beyond a punk scene they were not enjoying (This is better explained in Ian Glasper’s book Trapped in a Scene and copied into the write up for this CD). VOC got it right with their first LP for sure, but sadly could not keep it together with the line up changes etc as time went on. Looking back though, both bands played their part in the emergence of a DIY punk scene that is still with us today. A fitting tribute to them both and for that reason alone they deserve your time and ears. This double CD comes packed with info and virtually all the lyrics too! You might even get the bonus DVD if your quick enough as well!
Boss Tuneage: www.bosstuneage.com (Gaz)
WANTON THOUGHT s/t CD Boss Tuneage
This certainly brings back memories, and not just because I remember getting the “Mustard Mit” 7” from Aston way back in 1991, but because the sound reminds me of a lot of the stuff I was listening to back then. I hear bits of Exit Condition, Sleep and even Spermbirds in amongst these 10 songs. The tracks are take from that 7” (which was one of the earliest things we sold through the SD distro), their second demo and compilation tracks. Don’t worry if you’re not an oldie like me, these songs are full of speedy, melodic punk rock goodness. I am grateful to Boss T for keeping music like this available and reminding me that I do have some half forgotten gems in my record collection.
Boss Tuneage: www.bosstuneage.com (Tony)
WHOLE IN THE HEAD “Them & Us” 7” Tadpole / Opiate / others
Whole In The Head were a rampaging monster of a band and this EP shows them at their very best. Musically this is as good as I’ve heard them on record; it’s snarling, angry, powerful, intense, fast and uncompromising, and I even like Jamie’s vocals! But when you add to that the excellent artwork and presentation this is one of the best punk rock records to come out in a very long time. The fold out, Crass style, sleeve has lyrics, explanations, relevant contact info and cool artwork, and is the perfect way to illustrate just how much this band and this record deserve to be taken notice of. This isn’t just punk for entertainment, this is punk that informs, educates and encourages participation; just how punk rock should be in a world where war, poverty, exploitation, terror and environmental destruction are seen as “the norm”. We need more bands and releases like this, it’s just a shame that Whole In The Head are no longer together, although the individual band members, good men all, are carrying on the good fight in one way or another. As well as Opiate and Tadpole, this is a collaboration with four other labels; Zandor, Warm Bath, DogDown and Active Rebellion. Everything about this release feels vital and important.
Tadpole: Tadpole: http://opiatedistro.blogspot.com / spudutat@hotamil.com (Tony)
ZAPIAIN "Jibberjabber" CD Bombed Out/Unsane Asylum
And here comes another amazing UK band, though they have been around since 2006 apparently. And even better, they're Northern! Making a beautiful noise in a Jawbreaker/Leatherface/Milloy/HWM kind of way and doing it so, so well. 10 tracks of varying tempos but all of the highest quality of songwriting and sounding like these guys really mean it, with the great gravelly vocals that work so well with this style of music, with really strong personal type lyrics. Recorded at Soundstation by Mark Sturgess so you know that side of things is spot on and amazing crazy collage type artwork finish it off nicely. Bombed out does it again!
Bombed Out: www.bombedout.com / Unsane Asylum: www.unsaneasylum.com (si)
ZOUNDS “The Redemption Of Zounds” CD Overground
Well, this certainly came out of the blue; I had no idea there was anything new by Zounds in the offing, but then I’ve always found them to be a bit like that, just when you least expect it Zounds appear, briefly, and leave behind something to cherish. These ten new songs sound like Zounds, but avoid sounding like they’ve just dashed off a carbon copy of what they did 30 years ago. This album is bright, and energetic, with a nice trebly guitar sound and drums that really cut through; once or twice I found myself briefly reminded of TV Smith’s solo stuff. Lyrically this alternates between someone wondering how he fits into this world, and how that world is an uncaring place where money rules; I particularly like “Deportee”, “Waiting For The Clampdown Honey” and the opener “Cry Genie Cry”. This is really very good, and the time definitely feels right for a new Zounds album.
Overground: PO Box 1NW, Newcastle Upon Tyne, NE39 1NW - www.overgroundrecords.co.uk (Tony)
VARIOUS “No Future - Sex Pistols, The Clash, The Damned Tribute Album” CD Released Emotions
Back in the early days of SD we were friends with Vince who ran Released Emotions Records, but over the years we lost contact; so it was something of a surprise when he got back in touch, out of the blue, and that he was still releasing music. Now, I’m not adverse to a cover version or two, but I do have a hard time with tribute albums. On the face of it they seem a good idea, but then I’m always disappointed when the songs aren’t as great as the originals. Some bands have songs that are so well known and a lot of them have real stories and memories associated with them for me, none more so than the three bands who’s songs are featured here, so it’s difficult to be anything but a little disappointed when something like “Pretty Vacant” doesn’t have the same impact as it did when I was 11. Some of these versions aren’t too bad, with The Price and Steve Drewett trying to give Clash songs a different slant, and The Blaggers ITA do a fine job putting their own stamp on songs. But for the most part, sadly, these versions leave me cold and I sat here thinking that some bands’ songs become so well known and so entrenched in our minds that they are probably best left alone.
Released Emotions: remrstocktaking@btconnect.com (Tony)
The Message...
BARBIES DEAD #30 / A4 / 50p & SAE
Issue 30! Eleven years old! The cut and paste mayhem continues in this off beat, but up beat about its punk fanzine! No interviews but loads of interesting snippets to read and a load of 'My first gig' memories from various contributors to mention but a few things contained within. It's always been a basic fanzine but its honest and enthusiastic. What more could you want for your 50p?
Barbies Dead: Alex, Woodhouse, The Square, Gunnislake, Cornwall, PL18 9BW (Gaz)
EVERLONG #12 / A5 / £1.00 & SAE
I was really pleased to get the new issue of this zine as I was wondering if it was still going. Well, it's still going strong and this is a fine issue and quite a parochial one too! It features and is a celebration of the work done by Mike Darby at Bristol Archive Records. It has an interview with old Bristol band and 'almost' punk legends The Cortinas as well as three other old Bristol punk bands Social Security, The X-Certs and The Pigs. It also has interviews with bands of todays generation, namely Valdez and the Cut Ups! Now! If that was not enough there is also a very healthy reviews section and a good obituary to mark the sad passing of another fine venue for us lovers of punk The Junction in Bristol. Great issue and one worthy of your support particularly as the price you pay for this zine would not even buy you a third of a pint in most pubs!
Everlong: Shane Baldwin, 1 Shilton Close, Kingswood, Bristol, BS15 9UZ (Gaz)
ISSUE #54 / A4 / 50p & SAE
I've read a few issues of 'Issue' over the last few years and always find it an interesting read. I don't know many of the bands featured generally and find they are mainly from the part of the world Issue writer Neil lives in... That's sort of the Reading & Guildford area stretching down to Southampton and Portsmouth. This issue of Issue has interviews with Karn8 and Will Tun & the Wasters. Again, bands I've not heard of but worth reading about. There are loads of pictures to go with the live reviews which I like and although the zine almost has the feel of a newsletter it is very enthusiastic and worth your hard earned 50p.
Issue: Neil Duncan, 25 Sarum Hill, Basingstoke, Hampshire, RG21 8SS - issuepunkzine@hotmail.co.uk (Gaz)
RIPPING THRASH #28 / A5 / £1.00 & SAE
Hot on the heels of the last issue comes this packed issue featuring Hibernation (Greek crust!), Lycanthrophy (Czech) and John Why who oddly enough was the founder of the UK punk zine 'Why' in 1995... This issue also has a load of reviews, articles to make you think and a wonderful print job!
Ripping Thrash: steve@rippingthrash.com (Gaz)