HISTORY
"Ghosts In the City"
CD | 24hr Service Station
Reviewed: March 19th, 2008
History's debut album "Ghosts In the City" is an 11-song record filled with atmospheric songs and innovative songwriting. There's a post-punk feeling about this whole record but it's still kind of hard to put a label on the band. I really like the band's singer and the female back-up vocals really fits the songs especially in "Horn of the Unicorn" which has a chorus that goes "Six! Six! Six!". Fantastic song! It takes some time to get into this record but it's pretty cool when you've been listening to it for a while. If you are afraid of experimental music you might find this album too complicated and wierd but if you're open for new stuff you'll probably think it's pretty cool. It is a good record, maybe not my cup of tea, but it keeps getting better with each spin.
/Christer Davidsson, MUTINYZINE.COM
"Ghosts In the City"
CD | 24hr Service Station
Reviewed: March 19th, 2008
History's debut album "Ghosts In the City" is an 11-song record filled with atmospheric songs and innovative songwriting. There's a post-punk feeling about this whole record but it's still kind of hard to put a label on the band. I really like the band's singer and the female back-up vocals really fits the songs especially in "Horn of the Unicorn" which has a chorus that goes "Six! Six! Six!". Fantastic song! It takes some time to get into this record but it's pretty cool when you've been listening to it for a while. If you are afraid of experimental music you might find this album too complicated and wierd but if you're open for new stuff you'll probably think it's pretty cool. It is a good record, maybe not my cup of tea, but it keeps getting better with each spin.
/Christer Davidsson, MUTINYZINE.COM
NO USE FOR A NAME
"The Feel Good Record of the Year"
CD/LP | Fat Wreck Chords
Reviewed: March 19th, 2008
Sometime after "Making Friends" (1997) i got tired of this band, I'm not really sure why, I just felt like the band got boring I guess. Since then the band has dropped a whole bunch of albums and I can't really say that I've given any of those records a fair chance. Anyway, on Arpil 1st the band are releasing their 9th studio recording entitled "The Feel Good Record of the Year" and I think it's about time that I give this band a listen again. The first im,pression of this album is very very good and the opening track "Biggest Lie" just turned into my favorite NUFAN song of all times. The following song "I Want To Be Wrong" is a really energetic tune and so far it's all good and I'm getting my hopes up. Song number three falls flat on it's back and is the low point of the album with it's unbelivable crappy intro. However the record then picks up some speed again and overall I find it to be a cool album. There's an acoustic song that is really good on here as well as a piano backed "ballad" called "Ontario" which I think is pretty good. But it's the fast songs that makes this album worth checking out. The first two songs and the fast "Pacific Standard Time" are the peaks of the record and I guess I like this band again. Well-produced and tight as hell.
/Christer Davidsson, MUTINYZINE.COM
"The Feel Good Record of the Year"
CD/LP | Fat Wreck Chords
Reviewed: March 19th, 2008
Sometime after "Making Friends" (1997) i got tired of this band, I'm not really sure why, I just felt like the band got boring I guess. Since then the band has dropped a whole bunch of albums and I can't really say that I've given any of those records a fair chance. Anyway, on Arpil 1st the band are releasing their 9th studio recording entitled "The Feel Good Record of the Year" and I think it's about time that I give this band a listen again. The first im,pression of this album is very very good and the opening track "Biggest Lie" just turned into my favorite NUFAN song of all times. The following song "I Want To Be Wrong" is a really energetic tune and so far it's all good and I'm getting my hopes up. Song number three falls flat on it's back and is the low point of the album with it's unbelivable crappy intro. However the record then picks up some speed again and overall I find it to be a cool album. There's an acoustic song that is really good on here as well as a piano backed "ballad" called "Ontario" which I think is pretty good. But it's the fast songs that makes this album worth checking out. The first two songs and the fast "Pacific Standard Time" are the peaks of the record and I guess I like this band again. Well-produced and tight as hell.
/Christer Davidsson, MUTINYZINE.COM
GOOD RIDDANCE
"Remain In Memory - The Final Show"
CD | Fat Wreck Chords
Reviewed: March 19th, 2008
About a year ago Good Riddance announced their break-up. On May 27th, 2007 the band went on stage in their hometown Santa Cruz and put an end to their 12-year career with their guns blazing. I wasn't there but the sound of this live-recording tells me that it was an awesome show. I really liked this band and to me they served as one of the bands that got me into melodic hardcore. It would have been awesome to attend that final show but if you missed it I guess picking up this 31-track CD can work as some sort of comfort. With 7 albums and a bunch of EP's the band had enough good music to choose from while planning their final setlist and I think they did a great job. All of my favorites are on here including classics like "Flies First Class" & "Mother Superior" from the first album, "One For The Brave" from the "The Phenomenon of Craving" EP and pretty much all the best songs from throughout the years. My favorite GR song of all times is "Yesterday's Headlines" from the 2001 album "Symtoms of a Leveling Spirit" and it's cool to hear that that particular song was one of the high-points of the show with the entire crowd singing along. Definitely a worthy final show. Rest in peace!
/Christer Davidsson, MUTINYZINE.COM
"Remain In Memory - The Final Show"
CD | Fat Wreck Chords
Reviewed: March 19th, 2008
About a year ago Good Riddance announced their break-up. On May 27th, 2007 the band went on stage in their hometown Santa Cruz and put an end to their 12-year career with their guns blazing. I wasn't there but the sound of this live-recording tells me that it was an awesome show. I really liked this band and to me they served as one of the bands that got me into melodic hardcore. It would have been awesome to attend that final show but if you missed it I guess picking up this 31-track CD can work as some sort of comfort. With 7 albums and a bunch of EP's the band had enough good music to choose from while planning their final setlist and I think they did a great job. All of my favorites are on here including classics like "Flies First Class" & "Mother Superior" from the first album, "One For The Brave" from the "The Phenomenon of Craving" EP and pretty much all the best songs from throughout the years. My favorite GR song of all times is "Yesterday's Headlines" from the 2001 album "Symtoms of a Leveling Spirit" and it's cool to hear that that particular song was one of the high-points of the show with the entire crowd singing along. Definitely a worthy final show. Rest in peace!
/Christer Davidsson, MUTINYZINE.COM
TITLE FIGHT
"Kingston"
7" | Flightplan Records
Reviewed: March 19th, 2008
Youngsters Title Fight's debut 7" is a demonstartion of what melodic hardcore/ punk is all about. Packed with great hooks, cool tempo-changes and awesome choruses it will fit perfectly in my case of vinyl next to a 7" by Lifetime and "Flash, Flash, Flash" by The Explosion. Well, the latter might not have been a hardcore band but I still find some similarities between them and Title Fight. I guess it's the vocals and the energy. Anyway, you better get this one while it's still available. Get it and play it over and over and over... You'll like it, I'm sure of it.
/Christer Davidsson, MUTINYZINE.COM
"Kingston"
7" | Flightplan Records
Reviewed: March 19th, 2008
Youngsters Title Fight's debut 7" is a demonstartion of what melodic hardcore/ punk is all about. Packed with great hooks, cool tempo-changes and awesome choruses it will fit perfectly in my case of vinyl next to a 7" by Lifetime and "Flash, Flash, Flash" by The Explosion. Well, the latter might not have been a hardcore band but I still find some similarities between them and Title Fight. I guess it's the vocals and the energy. Anyway, you better get this one while it's still available. Get it and play it over and over and over... You'll like it, I'm sure of it.
/Christer Davidsson, MUTINYZINE.COM
BRASS
"Set & Drift"
CD | Self Released
Reviewed: March 19th, 2008
Brass' record "Set & Drift" is a fine installment of heartfelt melodies and epic songwriting. Though this is the band's first official record it seems like these guys have been playing together for ages. The songs are extremely well-written and along with the amazing vocals of singer Joe Webber I'm left with one thought in my head - this is quality music. This 8-track record falls within the indie frame but it has a somewhat punky feel to it which I like a lot. Webber's voice makes me think of Michael Stipe but overall this band has a more alternative sound than R.E.M. It's kind of hard to put words on the sound of "Set & Drift" but if you're into good indie music you'll love it. The package of the record is a story of it's own with a custom cardboard sleeve and lyric-cards included. Looks great, sounds fantastic.
/Christer Davidsson, MUTINYZINE.COM
"Set & Drift"
CD | Self Released
Reviewed: March 19th, 2008
Brass' record "Set & Drift" is a fine installment of heartfelt melodies and epic songwriting. Though this is the band's first official record it seems like these guys have been playing together for ages. The songs are extremely well-written and along with the amazing vocals of singer Joe Webber I'm left with one thought in my head - this is quality music. This 8-track record falls within the indie frame but it has a somewhat punky feel to it which I like a lot. Webber's voice makes me think of Michael Stipe but overall this band has a more alternative sound than R.E.M. It's kind of hard to put words on the sound of "Set & Drift" but if you're into good indie music you'll love it. The package of the record is a story of it's own with a custom cardboard sleeve and lyric-cards included. Looks great, sounds fantastic.
/Christer Davidsson, MUTINYZINE.COM
POLAR BEAR CLUB
"Somtimes Things Just Disappear"
CD | Red Leader Records
Reviewed: March 19th, 2008
Damn! How the hell did I miss Polar Bear Club's first EP? I should be ashamed of myself... A lot of people I've been in touch with have really recommended this five-piece from Rochester, NY but I guess I've been too busy to look 'em up. Anyway, I now got the band's first longplayer in my hands and I'm damn glad for that. This record is absolutely brilliant! Polar Bear Club brings together the best ingredients from punk, pop-punk, post-hardcore and rock and it turns out a perfect blend. Add the hoarse, yet melodic vocals of frontman Jimmy Stadt and you have an awesome record.
If I'm gonna go name-droppin' (as I always tend to do) I think I'd place this group somewhere between Rise Against and The Draft . The record has got a rough edge to it but it's still one of the most melodic and diverse records I've heard in a while. Opening tune "Eat Dinner, Bury the Dog, And Run" and "The Bug Parade" are down-tempo songs while anthems like "Burned Out In A Jar" will have you singin' along in no time.
So what are the low-points of this record? Well, I don't think it's available on vinyl (yet). I guess that's the only annoying thing about this release. Other than that I think we're looking at one this year's top 10 records right here. Just awesome!
/Christer Davidsson, MUTINYZINE.COM
"Somtimes Things Just Disappear"
CD | Red Leader Records
Reviewed: March 19th, 2008
Damn! How the hell did I miss Polar Bear Club's first EP? I should be ashamed of myself... A lot of people I've been in touch with have really recommended this five-piece from Rochester, NY but I guess I've been too busy to look 'em up. Anyway, I now got the band's first longplayer in my hands and I'm damn glad for that. This record is absolutely brilliant! Polar Bear Club brings together the best ingredients from punk, pop-punk, post-hardcore and rock and it turns out a perfect blend. Add the hoarse, yet melodic vocals of frontman Jimmy Stadt and you have an awesome record.
If I'm gonna go name-droppin' (as I always tend to do) I think I'd place this group somewhere between Rise Against and The Draft . The record has got a rough edge to it but it's still one of the most melodic and diverse records I've heard in a while. Opening tune "Eat Dinner, Bury the Dog, And Run" and "The Bug Parade" are down-tempo songs while anthems like "Burned Out In A Jar" will have you singin' along in no time.
So what are the low-points of this record? Well, I don't think it's available on vinyl (yet). I guess that's the only annoying thing about this release. Other than that I think we're looking at one this year's top 10 records right here. Just awesome!
/Christer Davidsson, MUTINYZINE.COM
VIETNAM WEREWOLF
"Ohio's City"
CD | Self Released
Reviewed: March 14th, 2008
Vietnam Werewolf's new record is packed with great songs. To describe the sound the band play punk rock with occasional hardcore and pop hooks. This is exactly the kind of music I'm listening to the most at the moment. The vocals are gritty and in-your-face and I like the singers voice a lot. Some songs reminds me of Dillinger Four but the band still sounds new & fresh, at least in my ears. The songs are well-written and the sound of the recording is great even though they probably haven't put a fortune into it. This is great punk rock and I can't wait to hear some more from this band. Great job!
/Christer Davidsson, MUTINYZINE.COM
"Ohio's City"
CD | Self Released
Reviewed: March 14th, 2008
Vietnam Werewolf's new record is packed with great songs. To describe the sound the band play punk rock with occasional hardcore and pop hooks. This is exactly the kind of music I'm listening to the most at the moment. The vocals are gritty and in-your-face and I like the singers voice a lot. Some songs reminds me of Dillinger Four but the band still sounds new & fresh, at least in my ears. The songs are well-written and the sound of the recording is great even though they probably haven't put a fortune into it. This is great punk rock and I can't wait to hear some more from this band. Great job!
/Christer Davidsson, MUTINYZINE.COM
THE BUCKSHOTS
"3 Jacks High"
CD | Hep Town Records
Reviewed: March 14th, 2008
"3 Jacks High" by The Buckshots is a rather boring story. It's rockabilly, kind of old-fashioned and it feels like I've heard it all before. Personally I think a lot of rockabilly sounds the same and overall it's a pretty dull style. There are a few songs on the album that stands out from the rest and brings a little shine to the record. My favorite is "Duane's Blues" which is a bit more down-tempo and has a cool gangster swing sound to it. Get it if you're a rockabilly freak but if you just wanna hear some old time music look up up the classics.
/Christer Davidsson, MUTINYZINE.COM
"3 Jacks High"
CD | Hep Town Records
Reviewed: March 14th, 2008
"3 Jacks High" by The Buckshots is a rather boring story. It's rockabilly, kind of old-fashioned and it feels like I've heard it all before. Personally I think a lot of rockabilly sounds the same and overall it's a pretty dull style. There are a few songs on the album that stands out from the rest and brings a little shine to the record. My favorite is "Duane's Blues" which is a bit more down-tempo and has a cool gangster swing sound to it. Get it if you're a rockabilly freak but if you just wanna hear some old time music look up up the classics.
/Christer Davidsson, MUTINYZINE.COM
NEW TOMORROW
"It's All Over But the Shouting"
CD | Oh No Not Records
Reviewed: March 14th, 2008
Here's a record you should try to get your hands on as soon as possible. This album, the band's first, is really one of those records you'll like instantly. It's kind of rough around the edges, which is just how I like it. New Tomorrow play pretty basic punk rock with some melodies and with a nice rawness to it. I like everything about this record. The songs are smart and so are the lyrics. This record was released in 2006 and I'm not even sure if it's possible to find anymore but if you do make sure to grab it. These guys are about to release a new record on the new label Skeleton Crew so stay tuned.
I'm not really sure who to compare the band to but I strongly suggest you look 'em up. You'll like it!
/Christer Davidsson, MUTINYZINE.COM
"It's All Over But the Shouting"
CD | Oh No Not Records
Reviewed: March 14th, 2008
Here's a record you should try to get your hands on as soon as possible. This album, the band's first, is really one of those records you'll like instantly. It's kind of rough around the edges, which is just how I like it. New Tomorrow play pretty basic punk rock with some melodies and with a nice rawness to it. I like everything about this record. The songs are smart and so are the lyrics. This record was released in 2006 and I'm not even sure if it's possible to find anymore but if you do make sure to grab it. These guys are about to release a new record on the new label Skeleton Crew so stay tuned.
I'm not really sure who to compare the band to but I strongly suggest you look 'em up. You'll like it!
/Christer Davidsson, MUTINYZINE.COM
BIOSCRAPE
"Untitled"
CDEP | Self Released
Reviewed: March 14th, 2008
This record is more or less crap. Bioscrape from Italy play some sort of nu-metal (or what it's called). I hear influences from bands like Korn and Slipknot. I guess the thing about this kind of music is that you'll need to put a ton of money into the recording in order to get the sound right. Demo-bands playing Nu-Metal usually suck, and so does the established ones to. The production of this record is awful and there's no depth at all, which I think is a must for this kind of music. I wouldn't recommend this one to anyone and don't even get me started on the slap-bass in "Souls Eater"...
/Christer Davidsson, MUTINYZINE.COM
"Untitled"
CDEP | Self Released
Reviewed: March 14th, 2008
This record is more or less crap. Bioscrape from Italy play some sort of nu-metal (or what it's called). I hear influences from bands like Korn and Slipknot. I guess the thing about this kind of music is that you'll need to put a ton of money into the recording in order to get the sound right. Demo-bands playing Nu-Metal usually suck, and so does the established ones to. The production of this record is awful and there's no depth at all, which I think is a must for this kind of music. I wouldn't recommend this one to anyone and don't even get me started on the slap-bass in "Souls Eater"...
/Christer Davidsson, MUTINYZINE.COM
OUR LAST NIGHT
"The Ghosts Among Us"
CD | Epitaph Records
Reviewed: March 14th, 2008
This record sounded cool for about 20 seconds. The first song started out as an aggressive somewhat metal-influenced hardcore tune with cool technical guitar melodies. I was a bit surprised as I thought Epitaph only signed boy-bands nowadays. But then, after about 20 seconds into the song it all turns around. Suddenly a song that could have been awesome is ruined by a second singer who takes on the role as "the melodic one". Yeah, it suddenly sounds a lot like those MTV bands. As always, with these Epitaph bands, it's extremely tight and produced but that ain't enough for me. Sure, it will probably sell a million copies and it will fit nice on TV. What started out kind of nice turned out lame as hell...
I've said it before but Epitaph is barely a shadow of what it used to be.
/Christer Davidsson, MUTINYZINE.COM
"The Ghosts Among Us"
CD | Epitaph Records
Reviewed: March 14th, 2008
This record sounded cool for about 20 seconds. The first song started out as an aggressive somewhat metal-influenced hardcore tune with cool technical guitar melodies. I was a bit surprised as I thought Epitaph only signed boy-bands nowadays. But then, after about 20 seconds into the song it all turns around. Suddenly a song that could have been awesome is ruined by a second singer who takes on the role as "the melodic one". Yeah, it suddenly sounds a lot like those MTV bands. As always, with these Epitaph bands, it's extremely tight and produced but that ain't enough for me. Sure, it will probably sell a million copies and it will fit nice on TV. What started out kind of nice turned out lame as hell...
I've said it before but Epitaph is barely a shadow of what it used to be.
/Christer Davidsson, MUTINYZINE.COM
THE MARTIN HARLEY BAND
"Grow Your Own"
CD | Villainous Records
Reviewed: March 14th, 2008
Martin Harley and his band has been playing music together for about five years and this record is their 3d. "Grow Your Own" has wide range of musical influences though it's most of all a singer/songwriter type of album. At times I think of Guy Clarks' late stuff, which is awesome, but there's also a hint of more established music like Eric Clapton who might not be my favorite artist. I kind of like it though. "Easy-listening" is probably the word I would use but it's worth checking out if you're looking for something a bit different. Harley has a great voice and overall this is a very professional recording. Not very alternative sounding though, but that might not always be a problem.
/Christer Davidsson, MUTINYZINE.COM
"Grow Your Own"
CD | Villainous Records
Reviewed: March 14th, 2008
Martin Harley and his band has been playing music together for about five years and this record is their 3d. "Grow Your Own" has wide range of musical influences though it's most of all a singer/songwriter type of album. At times I think of Guy Clarks' late stuff, which is awesome, but there's also a hint of more established music like Eric Clapton who might not be my favorite artist. I kind of like it though. "Easy-listening" is probably the word I would use but it's worth checking out if you're looking for something a bit different. Harley has a great voice and overall this is a very professional recording. Not very alternative sounding though, but that might not always be a problem.
/Christer Davidsson, MUTINYZINE.COM
THE SEPARATES
"The Truth Is In There"
CD | Radio Rebel Records
Reviewed: March 5th, 2008
The Separates from Hagen, Germany play gasoline-smelling rock'n'roll in the vein of The Hellacopters or The Turpentines. This kind of rock was really huge in Sweden a few years ago so I've really heard my fair share of it already. I find it kind of boring and I think most of these bands sound pretty much the same. The Separates makes really no exception. They're good at what they do but they're not exactly a fresh breeze to the genre. My favorite song on the album is "The Day She Died" which sounds a little bit more retro than the rest of the record. If you're looking for a new glam-rock'n'roll band to add to your collection I'd advice you to check out 2nd District instead. They are way better.
/Christer Davidsson, MUTINYZINE.COM
"The Truth Is In There"
CD | Radio Rebel Records
Reviewed: March 5th, 2008
The Separates from Hagen, Germany play gasoline-smelling rock'n'roll in the vein of The Hellacopters or The Turpentines. This kind of rock was really huge in Sweden a few years ago so I've really heard my fair share of it already. I find it kind of boring and I think most of these bands sound pretty much the same. The Separates makes really no exception. They're good at what they do but they're not exactly a fresh breeze to the genre. My favorite song on the album is "The Day She Died" which sounds a little bit more retro than the rest of the record. If you're looking for a new glam-rock'n'roll band to add to your collection I'd advice you to check out 2nd District instead. They are way better.
/Christer Davidsson, MUTINYZINE.COM
THE HEADLINES
"Plug & Play"
CD | Radio Rebel Records
Reviewed: March 5th, 2008
Sweden's The Headlines play very easy-listening party punk rock with all kind of influences. Some of the songs are more Ramones inspired while others have more of a modern touch. I like "The Streets of My Town" which sounds have a cool mandolin in it. I also like the female back-up vocals a lot. But apart from that I find myself thinking that this is all a bit too well-polished for my taste. The band is tight as hell and the production is near perfect but I can's find that edge that is needed if you're gonna do a "polished" record. A lot of people will like this one though, I'm sure. I, however, find it a bit dull and predictable.
/Christer Davidsson, MUTINYZINE.COM
"Plug & Play"
CD | Radio Rebel Records
Reviewed: March 5th, 2008
Sweden's The Headlines play very easy-listening party punk rock with all kind of influences. Some of the songs are more Ramones inspired while others have more of a modern touch. I like "The Streets of My Town" which sounds have a cool mandolin in it. I also like the female back-up vocals a lot. But apart from that I find myself thinking that this is all a bit too well-polished for my taste. The band is tight as hell and the production is near perfect but I can's find that edge that is needed if you're gonna do a "polished" record. A lot of people will like this one though, I'm sure. I, however, find it a bit dull and predictable.
/Christer Davidsson, MUTINYZINE.COM
"Violence/War"
7" | Slab-O-Wax Records
Reviewed: March 5th, 2008
War of Words play rough hardcore punk with sort of a low-fi touch to it. This is the band's third 7" and it's the first stuff I've heard from them so far. I really like the a-side which holds two awesome tunes which reminds me of Boston's A Global Threat. It's raw, energetic and really straight-forward. The b-side got a really fast song on it called "Stakes & Mistakes", which is the peak of the recording, as well as an acoustic song which really stands out and makes the record even more interesting. Good one!
/Christer Davidsson, MUTINYZINE.COM
THE PEGS
"Danger's Gone"
7" | Slab-O-Wax Records
Reviewed: March 5th, 2008
Really cool 2-song 7" from the OC punk scene veterans The Pegs. As usual when it comes to these bands you're in for a couple of minutes of snotty, mid-tempo punk rock with a ton of attitude. I hadn't heard the Pegs before, but this 7" really left me wanting more. Two songs just isn't enough but it's definitely better than nothing. "Danger's Gone" is really one of the best beach-punk tunes I've heard in a long while. You gotta check these guys out if you're into The Stitches, Broken Bottles or maybe The Numbers. The 7" comes on pink vinyl and was recorded at the infamous Adamo's. Where else?
/Christer Davidsson, MUTINYZINE.COM
"Danger's Gone"
7" | Slab-O-Wax Records
Reviewed: March 5th, 2008
Really cool 2-song 7" from the OC punk scene veterans The Pegs. As usual when it comes to these bands you're in for a couple of minutes of snotty, mid-tempo punk rock with a ton of attitude. I hadn't heard the Pegs before, but this 7" really left me wanting more. Two songs just isn't enough but it's definitely better than nothing. "Danger's Gone" is really one of the best beach-punk tunes I've heard in a long while. You gotta check these guys out if you're into The Stitches, Broken Bottles or maybe The Numbers. The 7" comes on pink vinyl and was recorded at the infamous Adamo's. Where else?
/Christer Davidsson, MUTINYZINE.COM
PETE BERWICK
"Ain't No Train Outta Nashville"
CD | Shotgun Records
Reviewed: March 5th, 2008
Imagine a run-down bar somewhere along the road packed with truckers shooting pool, smoking and drinking beer. Someone is passed out in the men's room, a couple of guys are fighting out front while others are playing stud or dancing with the local girls. The sound from the jukebox is more than likely to sound something like this record. Pete Berwick's debut album is packed with outlaw sounding country-rock'n'roll that would fit perfectly into that whole scenario. It would also be a fitting soundtrack to cruising through the desert with the rag-top down. I'm a being clear enough? This record has a lot of cliches but it's still kind of cool. Some of the songs like "When I'm Gone" or "Devil Knows His Name" reminds me of Steve Earle's early songs. Some people will probably hate this stuff but I think it's kinda cool. How about lines like "...honey, Jesus might forgive you - but I ain't him". You gotta admit it's pretty cool, right? Retro cowboy rock'n'roll!
/Christer Davidsson, MUTINYZINE.COM
"Ain't No Train Outta Nashville"
CD | Shotgun Records
Reviewed: March 5th, 2008
Imagine a run-down bar somewhere along the road packed with truckers shooting pool, smoking and drinking beer. Someone is passed out in the men's room, a couple of guys are fighting out front while others are playing stud or dancing with the local girls. The sound from the jukebox is more than likely to sound something like this record. Pete Berwick's debut album is packed with outlaw sounding country-rock'n'roll that would fit perfectly into that whole scenario. It would also be a fitting soundtrack to cruising through the desert with the rag-top down. I'm a being clear enough? This record has a lot of cliches but it's still kind of cool. Some of the songs like "When I'm Gone" or "Devil Knows His Name" reminds me of Steve Earle's early songs. Some people will probably hate this stuff but I think it's kinda cool. How about lines like "...honey, Jesus might forgive you - but I ain't him". You gotta admit it's pretty cool, right? Retro cowboy rock'n'roll!
/Christer Davidsson, MUTINYZINE.COM
DIRTY MONEY
"Far From Home"
CDEP | Thunderstruck Records
Reviewed: March 5th, 2008
Every once in a while I stumble upon bands that instantly fall in love with and this is one of those bands. Dirty Money, a three-piece, from Gainesville, dropped this debut EP in september last year and it's a damn good debut. The band plays pretty straight-on punk rock with no bullshitting around. I think of Minneapolis' Off With Their Heads at some points, Dirty Money has got that same cool feeling. There are some slower parts in some of the songs ("Ride Easy") which really fits the music well and the raspy vocals of both Colin & Ryan gives the whole recording a sincere touch. There's no doubt that these guys are in it for the love of the music. To sum it up: honest punk rock with no strings attached, easy going and with a lot of heart. Check 'em out!
/Christer Davidsson, MUTINYZINE.COM
"Far From Home"
CDEP | Thunderstruck Records
Reviewed: March 5th, 2008
Every once in a while I stumble upon bands that instantly fall in love with and this is one of those bands. Dirty Money, a three-piece, from Gainesville, dropped this debut EP in september last year and it's a damn good debut. The band plays pretty straight-on punk rock with no bullshitting around. I think of Minneapolis' Off With Their Heads at some points, Dirty Money has got that same cool feeling. There are some slower parts in some of the songs ("Ride Easy") which really fits the music well and the raspy vocals of both Colin & Ryan gives the whole recording a sincere touch. There's no doubt that these guys are in it for the love of the music. To sum it up: honest punk rock with no strings attached, easy going and with a lot of heart. Check 'em out!
/Christer Davidsson, MUTINYZINE.COM
PAINT IT BLACK
"New Lexicon"
CD/LP | Jade Tree / Reflections Records
Reviewed: February 25th, 2008
This is probably the one record that I've been looking forward to the most in a long while. The band's 2005 album "Paradise" was (and still is!) one of my favorite hardcore records of all time so I was really interested in seeing what Paint It Black would come up with on their new album.
About 20 seconds into the first song of "New Lexicon" it's all quite clear - Den Yemin and the boys have done it again. This album is so good I can't even put words on it. Just as good as "Paradise" if not better! Opening track "The Ledge" immediately sets the tone of the record proving that Paint It Black is still a band to count on. The gritty vocals of Yemin combined with the raw, yet still melodic guitar, backed by one of the tightest rhythm sections you'll ever hear makes Paint It Black what it is - one of the most dynamic hardcore outfits of today.
Out of all the 15 cuts on "New Lexicon" I can't find a single thing to complain about. All the songs fit perfectly together and it all makes sense. Songs like "Four Deadly Venoms", "Dead Precedents" and "Past Tense, Future Perfect" are just as good as old favorites "Exit Wounds" or "Pink Slip" which makes this new album an instant classic. This might sound exaggerated but this is, according to me, the perfect record. The band really managed to get every little thing right this time. Both lyrically and musically PIB is the thinking-man's hardcore band - and this is PIB at their very best.
"New Lexicon" will blow you away, I assure you...
Christer Davidsson, MUTINYZINE.COM
"New Lexicon"
CD/LP | Jade Tree / Reflections Records
Reviewed: February 25th, 2008
This is probably the one record that I've been looking forward to the most in a long while. The band's 2005 album "Paradise" was (and still is!) one of my favorite hardcore records of all time so I was really interested in seeing what Paint It Black would come up with on their new album.
About 20 seconds into the first song of "New Lexicon" it's all quite clear - Den Yemin and the boys have done it again. This album is so good I can't even put words on it. Just as good as "Paradise" if not better! Opening track "The Ledge" immediately sets the tone of the record proving that Paint It Black is still a band to count on. The gritty vocals of Yemin combined with the raw, yet still melodic guitar, backed by one of the tightest rhythm sections you'll ever hear makes Paint It Black what it is - one of the most dynamic hardcore outfits of today.
Out of all the 15 cuts on "New Lexicon" I can't find a single thing to complain about. All the songs fit perfectly together and it all makes sense. Songs like "Four Deadly Venoms", "Dead Precedents" and "Past Tense, Future Perfect" are just as good as old favorites "Exit Wounds" or "Pink Slip" which makes this new album an instant classic. This might sound exaggerated but this is, according to me, the perfect record. The band really managed to get every little thing right this time. Both lyrically and musically PIB is the thinking-man's hardcore band - and this is PIB at their very best.
"New Lexicon" will blow you away, I assure you...
Christer Davidsson, MUTINYZINE.COM
VARIOUS ARTISTS
"A Worldwide Hardcore Compilation"
CD | El Paso Records
Reviewed: February 25th, 2008
The term worldwide is really fitting for this comp having bands from all the corners of the world on it. El Paso Records, located in New Zealand, have brought together bands from the U.S. to Indonesia, from Colombia to Italy on this compilation and the idea of the record is great. But, just like the bands' nationalities the quality vary. Most music on this record is real crap leaving only a handful of interesting bands. Migra Violenta and Trust, both from Argentina, steps to the plate with two real good crust tracks that kicks almost all the other bands' asses. The only two other bands that have good songs on this comp is Colombia's Nada Que Perder, who are more about the old-school stuff, and Setiembreonce from Uruguay, who are a bit un-tight but the most technical band on the comp.
The result: South America vs. The World 1-0.
/Christer Davidsson, MUTINYZINE.COM
"A Worldwide Hardcore Compilation"
CD | El Paso Records
Reviewed: February 25th, 2008
The term worldwide is really fitting for this comp having bands from all the corners of the world on it. El Paso Records, located in New Zealand, have brought together bands from the U.S. to Indonesia, from Colombia to Italy on this compilation and the idea of the record is great. But, just like the bands' nationalities the quality vary. Most music on this record is real crap leaving only a handful of interesting bands. Migra Violenta and Trust, both from Argentina, steps to the plate with two real good crust tracks that kicks almost all the other bands' asses. The only two other bands that have good songs on this comp is Colombia's Nada Que Perder, who are more about the old-school stuff, and Setiembreonce from Uruguay, who are a bit un-tight but the most technical band on the comp.
The result: South America vs. The World 1-0.
/Christer Davidsson, MUTINYZINE.COM
THE ASTROLITES
"Hard Luck"
CD | Hep Town Records
Reviewed: February 25th, 2008
I'm not all that into rockabilly but this Swedish band is actually pretty good. I guess one thing that I like about this band is that they don't sing that much about ghosts and black roses and shit. I'm so fed up with the psychobilly stuff but this band has more of a classic approach to rockabilly. Adding flavors of swing, punk and surf to their music The Astrolites have managed to create a bunch of cool songs without crossing the line to being pathetic. If you're gonna play stuff like this you better play it the way it was supposed to be played and that's just what makes "Hard Luck" a good record. These guys respect the roots of their music. Classic rockabilly with a fresh twist!
/Christer Davidsson, MUTINYZINE.COM
"Hard Luck"
CD | Hep Town Records
Reviewed: February 25th, 2008
I'm not all that into rockabilly but this Swedish band is actually pretty good. I guess one thing that I like about this band is that they don't sing that much about ghosts and black roses and shit. I'm so fed up with the psychobilly stuff but this band has more of a classic approach to rockabilly. Adding flavors of swing, punk and surf to their music The Astrolites have managed to create a bunch of cool songs without crossing the line to being pathetic. If you're gonna play stuff like this you better play it the way it was supposed to be played and that's just what makes "Hard Luck" a good record. These guys respect the roots of their music. Classic rockabilly with a fresh twist!
/Christer Davidsson, MUTINYZINE.COM
BROKEN BOTTLES
"Hospital"
CD | TKO Records
Reviewed: February 25th, 2008
Yet another new release from TKO Records, the home of snotty in your face old-school punk rock. As I said in the review below I've always liked these SoCal punk bands and my favorite one is by far Broken Bottles. These guys are, according to me (next to The Stitches), the kings of this genre. The band's new record "Hospital" has everything you could ask for in a Broken Bottles record. Few punk bands write mid-tempo songs that feels like 300 mph. Yeah, most songs on "Hospital" are pretty slow but you'll get the feeling that you're listening to a fast band. That's the whole charm of Broken Bottles' music. Along with the best BB song ever "Suburban Dream" new tunes like "Skateboarder" and "La Palma Park" makes "Hospital" a fantastic new record. Get yer skateboard & yer beer! The kings of snotty punk rock are back!
/Christer Davidsson, MUTINYZINE.COM
"Hospital"
CD | TKO Records
Reviewed: February 25th, 2008
Yet another new release from TKO Records, the home of snotty in your face old-school punk rock. As I said in the review below I've always liked these SoCal punk bands and my favorite one is by far Broken Bottles. These guys are, according to me (next to The Stitches), the kings of this genre. The band's new record "Hospital" has everything you could ask for in a Broken Bottles record. Few punk bands write mid-tempo songs that feels like 300 mph. Yeah, most songs on "Hospital" are pretty slow but you'll get the feeling that you're listening to a fast band. That's the whole charm of Broken Bottles' music. Along with the best BB song ever "Suburban Dream" new tunes like "Skateboarder" and "La Palma Park" makes "Hospital" a fantastic new record. Get yer skateboard & yer beer! The kings of snotty punk rock are back!
/Christer Davidsson, MUTINYZINE.COM
THE CROWD
"Letter Bomb"
CD | TKO Records
Reviewed: February 25th, 2008
The Crowd were one of the bands behind the punk rock explosion that took place in Huntington Beach in the late 70's. These guys are more or less legends nowadays and this re-release of their 1996 album "Letter Bomb" proves that The Crowd's music is still something to count on.
When it comes to punk rock I've always liked the bands from this particular area and The Crowd makes no exception. Packed with snotty punk rock anthems and catchy rock'n'roll melodies "Letter Bomb" has pretty much everything you could ask for when it comes to classic punk. Apart from the crappy layout there's really nothing I can complain about. West coast punk rock at it's finest. For fans of Smogtown, U.S. Bombs or TKO bands in general.
/Christer Davidsson, MUTINYZINE.COM
"Letter Bomb"
CD | TKO Records
Reviewed: February 25th, 2008
The Crowd were one of the bands behind the punk rock explosion that took place in Huntington Beach in the late 70's. These guys are more or less legends nowadays and this re-release of their 1996 album "Letter Bomb" proves that The Crowd's music is still something to count on.
When it comes to punk rock I've always liked the bands from this particular area and The Crowd makes no exception. Packed with snotty punk rock anthems and catchy rock'n'roll melodies "Letter Bomb" has pretty much everything you could ask for when it comes to classic punk. Apart from the crappy layout there's really nothing I can complain about. West coast punk rock at it's finest. For fans of Smogtown, U.S. Bombs or TKO bands in general.
/Christer Davidsson, MUTINYZINE.COM
TIME AGAIN
"Darker Days"
CD | Hellcat Records
Reviewed: February 7th, 2008
I wasn't too crazy about Time Again's last record "The Stories Are True" but I decided to give this new one a spin.
So, what's new? "Darker Days" has 14 Hellcat-sounding songs on it and I must admit to myself that they've actually gotten better since the last album. Maybe it's the endless touring that has brought new energy and inspiration to the band's songwriting. However, they still sound very very much like Rancid. The opening track "Day Like This" is the album's best song and singer Daniel Dart reminds me really much of Russ from Good Riddance on this song which is kind of cool. If you liked the last album you'll love this one. It's almost the same, just a little better.
/Christer Davidsson, MUTINYZINE.COM
NORTH LINCOLN/ YOU ME & THE ATOM BOMB
"Split"
7" | Yo Yo Records
Reviewed: February 7th, 2008
I got really excited when I read in the promo-notes that North Lincoln have a record out on No Idea Records. That name pretty much says enough to get my interest going. So, my expectations were high, to say the least, when I put the needle down on this 7". It was exactly as I thought it would be. Really fucking cool straight on punk rock a la No Idea. I'm totally sold on these bands right now and this is just another band-name to remember. Both songs by North Lincoln are killer-tracks with a good production. I like it!
You Me & The Atom Bomb has a similar touch to their sound and I like this band a lot to. The trio from Portsmouth, UK, is a bit faster and slightly more technical but just as cool as North Lincoln. Both "Drive" and "World For Rent" sounds awesome in my ears. Look up this 7"!
/Christer Davidsson, MUTINYZINE.COM
"Split"
7" | Yo Yo Records
Reviewed: February 7th, 2008
I got really excited when I read in the promo-notes that North Lincoln have a record out on No Idea Records. That name pretty much says enough to get my interest going. So, my expectations were high, to say the least, when I put the needle down on this 7". It was exactly as I thought it would be. Really fucking cool straight on punk rock a la No Idea. I'm totally sold on these bands right now and this is just another band-name to remember. Both songs by North Lincoln are killer-tracks with a good production. I like it!
You Me & The Atom Bomb has a similar touch to their sound and I like this band a lot to. The trio from Portsmouth, UK, is a bit faster and slightly more technical but just as cool as North Lincoln. Both "Drive" and "World For Rent" sounds awesome in my ears. Look up this 7"!
/Christer Davidsson, MUTINYZINE.COM