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It's time to get in the pit baby..... Punk rock CD reviews will be found here, if you like your music fresh, current, and with an edge, You'll love the music reviewed in Punk rock reviews!!! Punk rock has evolved from it's roots with Brit bands like The Clash and The Sex Pistols through the Ramones, up through the Offspring and others, and it's all found right here! If you're looking to buy your favorite Punk music, and you see it here, if it is available at Amazon.ca, or Amazon.com, or CDBaby you will see the buttons below the reviews, just click on them to be transported to the buying pages!
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Maxeen - Self Titled
How do three young dudes from Akron, Ohio (Tom Bailey, frontman and bass), Connecticut (Shannon McMurray, Guitar) and the land of the sun (California, Jay Skowronek) meet up and form a band? Simple you take two that really need a change of musical atmosphere, thy pack up and head (individually) to California, meet, and start playing then they find another punk that plays drums, and has been in several local area bands since he was 15, they all have the same visions, and they join forces.
That's how it all happened for the members of Maxeen who truly are a success story, after being together about 6 months, they already get signed to the Los Angeles based Side One Dummy records. They also got a management team in Five Finger management. They wrote ten songs their first night together. If that sounds a bit out there, you won't think so after you gear this trio shake the walls of your trailer park home.
Maxeen sound tighter and more trained than some bands that have been together for years longer than these guys. Rapid fire music with spunky vocals, and some lyrics that are from the humorous to the angst trodden. When you stir all this talent into one pot, you get some of the better punk music of the day with some sounds that are reminiscent of early police, but with a harder edge. The trio have been gathering fans wherever they play, and it is no wonder.
Echoes of the Fixx, the Police, the Pixies and a handful of other 70s and 80s masters, mixed with a rough, yet polished edge make this CD a must have for any true fan of punk. The overall sound is incredibly tight and very catchy as the three members of Maxeen get together to form an assault on your senses. This is a story of a band that was destined to meet, fitting together more tightly than the elusive O.J. glove! Not perfect, but very very good!
( 5 Stars out of 6 )
Blinker The Star - Still In Rome
This is NOT your classic punk CD, nor is it a pop record, or a rock record, more of a culmination of all the above. What it is simply, a vision realized by Jordon Zadorozny. The leader of the pack, up and coming producer, songwriter and rock and roll survivor from the mid 1990s. Jordon got some help this time around from Lindsey Buckingham (guitars and vocals on "What Have I Been Waiting For"), drummer Andy Sturmer (also on "What Have I Been Waiting For"), and Paul D'Amour - Nord lead synthesizer and chas on the same tune. Drum help also from Kellii Scott on "Still In Rome", "Get Together", "Got To Go Through It", and "Don't Believe It".
The rest of the instruments, and all the vocals were written and performed by Jordon Zadorozny. This album has really got it all kiddies, from the straight ahead ripping rock sound, to the fun and at times dark lyrics, and amazing performances trapped in the studio, and transcribed beautifully to CD. If your wondering, this CD has got great hooks, intense vocals, and musical mastery that take this up-tempo project to the next level of existence.
Jordon Zadorozny has created a new CD filled with things the fans of music have been salivating for, but only ever got pieces of in the past. The incredible feeling of Canadian new wave, British punk, and American production qualities with modern rock tendencies. All that means is for a new Rock album, all the best elements have been brought in, stirred frantically, and the contents checked to see what spills out, and what spills out is Blinker The Star !
I truly don't believe I've heard an album that has studied the past history of rock and incorporated it so well since The Clash's masterpiece London Calling. Not only has Blinker The Star brought elements from the past forward, he has also taken modern rock elements and incorporated them, as well as elements we didn't know we were ready for, until now. From the sound of this CD, I have seen the light at the end of the tunnel, and kiddies, you had better be on the lookout for Blinker The Star, this album rocks!
( 5.5 Stars out of 6 )
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Punk Rock Music Reviews
Mercury Boy - Get It Goin'
Flashback punk from New York City, Mercury Boy and his band of intergalactic warriors Marco Passarelli- Guitar, Atom Fellows on bass, and whiplash drummer Rich Haviland have made a punk EP that is fun, quirky, and totally reminiscent of 70s and 80s punk bands like Big Audio Dynamite, even a bit of New Wave like the Talking Heads thrown in to make this a true roots punk CD that is a good first offering adding a sense of humor and angst together to make an EP that stands it's ground.
With the makeup painted on you can even feel a bit of the early and mid 70s glam rock. An attack on the senses, Mercury Boy has a straight ahead approach, the difference here is the songs aren't about upheaval and rebellion, but more about technology and having fun. The four tunes "Keep It Real", "Bus Driver", "It's All Trash" and "Cyber Junkie" are upbeat numbers that spell fun and entertainment. A good 4 song offering, and it makes you wonder what else Mercury Boy has up his sleeve.
Collider - WCYF
So, you say you've never heard of Collider, that's quite alright, neither had I. I think that's all about to change now though kiddies.... Collider have a punk sound that may be influenced by the Ramones, but they ain't the Ramones baby... Who is? (well besides the Ramones). The thing is, although produced by Tom Erdelyi (AKA Tommy Ramone), the band led by Jed Davis fierce vocals, quirky songwriting, and keyboards. Jed has a rimshot speed to his vocals, and that's a good thing too. The guitar of Sean Gould may be the closest sound they have to the Ramones, but enough about the legends, let's get to the new breed........
Collider's sound is a blend of pop and punk, although at times a bit too poppy, they still have heart, and are probably a lot closer to punk than some of the kids playing crap today. This isn't crap, It isn't sheer magic either, but maybe somewhere in between, and that's probably good enough for now. Mike Heaney's bass and Joe Abbatantuono on the skins round out the quartet, and these guys are shining, and I'm looking forward to more. Probably the truest sound that's come along in a while, and I like the style.
This is Exploding - EP
Cleveland, Ohio almost punk band This Is Exploding haven't been together long, but they still deserve a shot out as they lay down 5 solid tracks, and a video, on this enhanced EP. The sound is at times a little shaky, but overall the 4 guys have a solid sound that is pure punk pop. The guitars re edgy, the sound is raw, the mix is ok, and the complete picture, although a bit rough and obviously Indie, is still a good purchase for the sound. The boys lay down some good tracks and face the music like a band that's been together for a longer time.The band just turned one (1) on September 23rd.
The name fits the band as they are definitely exploding onto the Cleveland music scene in a big way. The band has played a host of shows in over 6 markets already, as well as having their music featured in Independent films. The band plays their style of tunes, and take no prisoners as they rock their little world, be on the lookout for this band in the next little while, and you will remember the name of This Is Exploding.
Brand New - Deja Entendu
I hope you're not looking for the continuation of Your Favorite Weapon when you pick this up, because it's not here. What is here is a solid CD from Brand New that includes tighter sounds, and songwriting that has reached new heights as the band develops into a more mature sound. The deal is that the songs are better than last time, the hooks and riffs remain, and the vocals have expanded, but remain at times as innocent as in your face.
Deja Etendu is the second full length CD from the band, and they rock (at times with a vengeance). There are some good tunes here, and it ain't your next door neighbors daughters pop saturated mainstream punk wannabes. What we have is clear songwriting with more heart and attitude, and a great mix of vocals and catchy aggression. The band have definitely put their best foot forward on their latest effort, and my congrats to 'em for that.
With song titles longer than your mothers night dress, these are some boys that may be spending some serious time in therapy in the future. Tunes of Elvis, Tommy Guns, and Jaws (not necessarily in that order) that keep you on your toes. There are some standout tunes that will keep ya coming back for more, and the ones that'll keep you guessing at the same time.
All in all, Deja Entendu from Brand New has some great tunes, a good even flow that holds your attention, and some truly weird stuff happening too. The best of the best would have to be "The Boy Who Blocked His Own Shot", "Okay I Believe You but My Tommy Gun Don't", and "Guernica". A top notch CD from the genre, and keeps their fans wondering where we may be heading next.
( 5 Stars out of 6 )
G-Spot - 5 Song EP
The leader of G-Spot is femme fatale Gail Silverman, a singer-songwriter of the alternative variety. The songwriting is that of angst and total disregard for the norm. A mixture of young love, anarchy and political incorrectness. In all that is a good thing with G-Spot as the style of music matches the assault on your hearing the band wants to portray. This ain't the kind of pop music or rock you might be expecting from a "she" fronted band.
I think Gail pounds home the attitude of G-Spot best right from the first of this EP. She wails on "Revolutionary" .... "Well I'm not Christina and I'm not Brittney, I'm not Brandi, nor am I Mandy, Oooh it's cool to be the one who's not JUST eye candy....", That kind of brings the emotion to the forefront here. As a whole this is a rock CD that's not punk, metal, pop, or rock, but more of a mixture of all of the above. With a witty sense of humor thrown in the lyrical mix, more noticeable on tunes like "Nut In Your World".
This is one CD that you will have to check out when the next full length
release is released at the end of 2003. I still would recommend getting caught up on G-Spot by checking out there website, or their last CD release "Experience the Pleasure". From "Revolutionary" to "Sweet Lies", Silverman and company reel you in and keep your palate wanting to taste more of this infectious groove they have going on. A brazen New York band that deserves attention, and commands it at times. Sleek, slick production with rebellious attitude. A great glimpse into a band on the rise.
( 5 Stars out of 6 )
Girly Freak Show - 4 song EP
You can hear everything from Bow Wow Wow to the Runaways in the vocals. A punk/alternative/ and new wave are a few of the defining influences on the band. Energy abounds as Girly Freak Show explodes into a frenzy on the CD. The music is rough, and forceful, and the vocals of Wendy Latta prove there is a place in the world of Punk for girls to rock on as well . A massive attack on the senses as some tunes start out easy, then they transform themselves and throw a thrash at you.
The incredible kinship shines through the music remaining tight and retro. Girly
Freak Show have a surefire chemistry that shines through on the tracks. Four
good songs , and my only complaint is I wanna hear more. A wonderful beginning for the band here, and if they stick to their guns and don't change they may just make something of themselves. Good Job.
Heroes Of The Alamo - 98 to 1
Equal parts REM and early Elvis Costello blend the smooth sound of Heroes of the Alamo. Calling New York home, HOTA bring a new flamboyance to a classic style, and borrow from their many influences while writing and recording catchy pop punk. A clever approach to song construction adding contemporary style to
classic exuberance. With all the elements in place, HOTA can spar memories of the glory days while remaining fresh and timely.
13 tracks that can hold your attention without even trying. A constantly moving and energetic approach that sets HOTA apart from the indie scene and creeping in with tunes that are as good as much of the modern rock today. A compelling swish that holds them ahead of much of the indie music by stirring emotion and true feeling in the mix. The latest CD offering 98 to 1 has a definite charm that is equal parts retro and up to date.
A polished disk that combines flashy guitar and prominent vocals that send Heroes Of The Alamo a step above. The tunes are captivating, you will find
yourself singing along after just a couple listens. Reinventing a classic sound and putting their own pseudo punk stamp on a sparkling CD. HOTA have a pure
vision of their goals, and keep them in sight on 98 to 1.
Heroes of the Alamo are Richard Brown - bass and vocals, Todd Carlstrom with vocals, lead guitar and mandolin, David Makuen on vocals and guitar, and Kevin
Slane fusing the project together with drums, percussion and vocals. A shimmering CD in a sometimes over saturated genre, Heroes of the Alamo have their own way of drawing a listener and hooking them.
( 5 Stars out of 6 )
The Casualties - On The Front Line
Did someone say punk all sounds the same today? You obviously haven't been following the career of the street punk elite (If there is such a thing). The Casualties have been creating havoc since the early 1990s but haven't been able to capture the ferocity of their live performances. That is until now! The breakneck speed of the tunes crammed into their forthcoming CD is encouraging to hear. See, The Casualties have always put on an energetic live show, and then fell a bit short of the mark in the studio, but On The Front Line has changed all that!
The chaos featured here say there is still hope, no they haven't changed their style any, but they have finally been able to recreate their anarchist stage presence on their current project. The flying guitar work of Jake is just as much metal as it is punk, Jorge's vocals are blistering as they transport your mind back to when the British punksters were all the rage in the '70s.
Obviously the boys ate their wheaties before heading into the studio this time around. The severe lashing Meggers gives his drum heads would give any lesser drummer (Besides Animal on the muppet show) heart failure. The lyrics aren't deep and meaningful, but they do completely fit The Casualties performance. I can't leave out the pulsating boom created by bassman Rick, as all the guys make up the sound, and without one the others wouldn't sound as raw. Great new punk that is refreshing to explode out of the mold created to the music.
( 5 Stars out of 6 )
Exhibit F - Blue in the background
The potential is there, as is the energy and drive. Fronting the group is a gal named Melle whose vocals are strong flashbacking to the time when Heart was a real rock band before deciding to be a band that delivers make out music, the times of Barracuda. Sometimes you can even hear Joan Jett (Runaway years) in the intensity. Hailing from San Diego, California, Exhibit F has put together a good album.
There are times the band seems to drift too deeply into the music (seemingly) making the disk more about the music than on the lyrics. The other setback is at times Exhibit F seem to lose focus resulting in spans where the music sounds a bit redundant. The lyrical portion is top notch, good performances from Melle, John Duffy (drums), Chris Lawrence (guitar) and Jeremy Turner (bass). There is room for improvement however on all ends.
Driving rhythm that absorbs you into the mix. In an age and time where there are not many Hard rock bands fronted with women, which makes this CD all the more interesting. Heavy hitting lyrics sung with passion and desire, with intense attitude. The disk is musically well put together and if they work at making the next CD even tighter more focused I would say the band will have no boundaries.
"Heir", "Rest" and "Ugly and Unsinsere" are three of the tunes that prove the talent of Exhibit F is there, just a bit more buffering to move them into the next dimension of music. I recommend this CD based on potential that is screaming to be paroled and be a part of the music. For an indie CD though this is as strong as many other bands active today, while surpassing still more. A CD that jumps fences to different styles as you discover traces of prog-rock, metal, punk and emo.
( 4 Stars out of 6 )
Polemic - Plastic On The Mouth Hole
A little goth, a bit experimental, and a whole truck load of punk brings us back to the days when bands really wanted to set themselves apart from the rest of the pack. Polemic fronted by McKenna Mackie who can go from the subtle sounds and almost immediately she can screech and wail to get the point of the music across. The point is that she can range from Courtney Love's in yer face vocal approach to Debbie Harry and Joan Jett (in her early days).
The music (also written by McKenna) is ummmm, well, it borders between intelligent and just plain strange. Todd Sims adds an incredible ferocity to his drum pounding and does some vocals, and the bass work of Jeff Fox is spotlighted by presenting the bass line in the forefront rather than being pushed into the scenery. Plastic On The Mouth Hole is an angry recording with each song having it's own distinct flavor.
Flashing back to some hard core roots and showing the band is not afraid to take a few changes. The demented laughter on "Dealing" gives you the feeling the men in the white coats are soon to arrive and take these misfits away. If you really dive into the lyrics there is a great deal of substance there for the most part, and at other times you get an opium dream delivered to your senses from strange rants throughout the project.
If you are looking for some rough edged music with a bit of flare this CD might be right up your alley. We should all expand out musical horizons from time to time, and without question this disc will do that for you. A concoction of some truly original songs, some out there sound effects, and a haunting atmosphere make this one of the most original punk CDs in my recent memory. Not without it's flaws, a rough "off the floor" mix, but definitely carving a little home in the underground.
( 4 stars out of 6 )
The Distillers - Coral Fang
OK, so here I am waiting for the new CD by LA based punkers, and while waiting ever so patiently I am reading a cross section of reviews by a lot of other folks. Some trash the band fronted by true girly angst chick Brody Dalle who doubles as axe slinger, and others praise the band for being so innovative. Well now I ma perplexed as to what the new CD will sound like, the first thing I want to tell you is this, you have to decide for yourself! Comparisons to (yeah) Courtney Love and Joan Jett abound, so is the new record a revolutionary project, or just digging itself deeper in a "hole" ?
Leaving the almost to polished for the band "The Hunger" out of the picture, I will have to say a bit of both. It is not a breathtaking surge into punk history, but the sound of The Distillers has evolved since their last two indie projects. The problem is that the overall sound may have matured, but that also means they have mellowed (not enough to really matter). The complete over the top and in your freakin' face sound of the last two albums has kind of taken a back seat to the artistic license the band has decided to create in the punk arena.
Don't get confused here, I will tell you Brody and The Distillers are a punk band in the beginning, and remain that way today, so yeah this is a good record, there are times major labels don't take chances on such a creative force, so to Sire and Warner Music, my hat is off. The thing that may disappoint some fans is the band just doesn't sound Indie any more. Well there is good reason for that, new members and the split with a hubbie (Tim Armstrong of Rancid) have left Dalle with inspiration and creativity abounds with her band mates.
The complete project is ferocious, yet tamed a bit, I just can't see the real fans getting too ticked about the sound as the lyrical expression has evolved into a more focused machine. The music is a bit tamer, but still rocks heaven while standing at the gates of hell! The current lineup of The Distillers has Dalle joined by Andy Granelli (drums), Ryan Sinn (Bass and Vocals), and Tony Bradley (Guitar and vocals). As for the sound, old fans will love the sound of "Death Sex" and "Die On A Rope" while tunes like the first single "Drain The Blood" and the lackluster "The Hunger" are sure to bring new screaming fans to the seats at shows and the record stores. Not their best, but not a major label sellout deal either.
( 4.5 Stars out of 6 )
Billy Talent - Self Titled
Which member of this band is Billy Talent, ummmmm, none of them, the four piece punk rock purveyors of mayhem from Ontario, Canada simply name themselves after a character in the Punk Rock movie "Hard Core Logo". The name fits the group however as they explode from the speakers yelling, singing, and playing their asses off to entertain the punk rock population that is a bit sick of the made for airwaves punk pop that seems to be coming out of every seem today.
You see, we take four members of two separate bands that had reached as high as they were going to. Mix in the angst of the punk masters, a little of the Buzzcocks attitude and energy to spare and you have yourselves a bit of a musical hydrogen bomb that is ready to attack any and all members of the "real world", Humans beware cuz these guys are from a different dimension.
If you were of the thoughts that punk died off, I believe you had better jusmp back on the trojan horse as Billy Talent are about to invade your stereos, your video stations, and the radio stations that "dare" play the new age hardcore rebel rockers that are as smooth and styled as they are in your face. The lyrics actually have something to say here, and that is a rarity. Not just screaming about anarchy and injustices, Billy Talent tackles the issues that are plaguing the teenage population.
The debut single "Try Honesty" is a good starting point, but the band is much deeper and more diverse than the one tune lets you feel. I urge the modern rock and punk fans to go and pick this CD up as Billy Talent truly are a force to be reckoned with in the early part of 2k. Congratulations go to the members, Ian D'Sa (Guitar and vocal), Jonathan Gallant (Bass and vocal), Aaron Solowoniuk (Drums), and Benjamin Kowalewicz (Lead vocals and attitude) for throwing some fresh meat into the old ring, and giving the fans a CD to rave about!
( 5.5 Stars out of 6 )
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