Anti-Flag

This is the best record Anti-Flag has put out, this band says what they want about politics, anarchy, and love, one of the few best punk bands left. They serve a great purpose to punk rock and their beliefs are strong and true.

the Banjo Spiders

Eleven tightly played pop rock songs with heavy influences from old time American rock and roll such as Buddy Holly and Credence Clearwater Revival. The songs also have a feel of garage rock to them with a hint of quirkiness much like Weezer. The songs are a bit mellow, but they pull you in and play with your musical taste buds. The Banjo Spiders play a very unique and un90's sound. Refreshing indeed

Bamboo Music

Bamboo Music close your eyes and listening. Music composed and recorded for advertising, film, radio television, video, ETC.

Big Bad Bollocks

Ever stumble into a pub half hammered and sing along with the band who was just as hammered as you? Well, BBB is probably the best band to share a pint or two with. They sound like an English/Irish pub band with a touch of punk, folk, rock, and plenty o� Guinness. Some of the songs are fast, some are ballads, but they are all perfect! From the sing along choruses in �Aunt Mary� to the pub brawling atmosphere in �Pubs of Liverpool� to the romantic feelings of �Drunker Than I Was,� this disc covers all the bases. As great as this disc is, BBB is even better live. Be sure to check them out. Unless you hate having a good time, this disc is impossible not to like. Cd of the year.

Big D and the Kids Table

We're lucky to have these guys in the hometown scene base. What can I say? After hearing "Shot By Lammi" and the live ep, i was excited. I've seen these guys a thousand times, and during the summer, started to hear some of their new stuff. It all culminated into the moment when i got my hands on {good-luck} a while ago, when I could only say "these guys kick so much ass", i mean, literally, {good-luck} will kick your ass. When a point is reached, and attitudes towards the ska-punk genre start to grow sour, this disc totally turns it around. There's no way that this album will not touch you in one way or another. Their musicianship is excellent, the lyrics are sensible and..geez, the album is so....godly, i can't find words. Well, on with technical review...

{good-luck} certainly starts off well, with "Myself", my body could barely contain so much rock, I almost stopped functioning. The subtle force of the lyrics leave you humming, and, well its just hard to forget. "GLD" was another catchy one shortly afterwards, with super-neato horn work done over the high energy punk riff, and quite funny lyrics for that matter. "Fatman" is classic Big D, with crafty solo work, catchy melody and a spine racking climax. "Take Another Look" is similar in that respect too, but the lyrics are more upset, and the climax is in super-pissed-off mode. Great Stuff. Right after that, "Findout" brings you down to a Skavoovie-ish groove with extended solos, just really great meat and potatoes ska, ska with no trimmings or ornaments. The last track, aptly titled {good-luck} is, in all respects, the best. a laid back beat with acoustic ska-chopping and relatable lyrics, its like a cross between a Rollins spoken word disc (well, one of his less angry pieces) and Big D ska. It just hits you right. Really. Without the cd on, I found myself picking out the chords on my acoustic because i couldn't get enough of it..

No complaints at the end of the review this time. Order it from Asian Man right now, or build a time machine and get the Fork in Hand release. All the same, but Big D = undeniable.

Humble Beginnings / Bracket

This TooHep records release is a split EP featuring the veteran punk band Bracket (fat wreck chords) and the NJ pop punk band Humble Beginnings. One of the great things about this EP is that unlike most splits, this release comes in 2 CDs!

Bracket is a prominent CA punk band, they have 7 songs on this release including "Shoe Gazer," "My Very Own Apple Tree," and "Shadow Puppets." This half of the 2 CD EP is called "Age and Experience." Most of these songs are mellow pop punk, but some include an almost country feel in verses. "My Very Own Apple Tree" is my personal favorite of the Bracket songs on this EP. It's the longest song on the release at just over four and a half minutes, but it's just a good, mellow song to listen to on a bad day. Overall, Bracket delivers good songs that add to the content of this EP. This is a must get for any Bracket fan.

The second CD in this EP is Humble Beginnings. These guys are one of my favorite bands, and in my opinion, the best pop punk band to come out of NJ next to Lanemeyer (also one of my personal favorites). They have 5 songs on this including "1987," "What Else is There," and "A Day at the Races." These guys play a typical style of pop punk with a sound much like that of the Ataris. I picked this EP up about a month ago after seeing these guys live at the Caf� Eclipse, and I just can't stop listening to their half of the EP, "Youth and Cunning," now. My favorite out of these is "A Day at the Races," but all 5 of the songs are great. For anyone who likes pop punk, this is a real good buy.

This is a good release, and I am personally very happy to have picked it up. The best thing about this is that it's a 2 CD set, so if you didn't like one of the bands, you could easily give that part of the EP to somebody who does. I really like this split and I would recommend anyone to go and find this. It's well worth the 10 dollars.

the Carpet Patrol!

I'm sorry, but up until now I've always assumed that that all CDs with a blue bottom suck. Scratch that for the Carpet Patrol. Their demo, featuring nine glorious tracks hails "Me and My IIe" as it's oldskool fav. The other tracks are newer songs that simply rock. What most people miss seeing the Patrol live is the witty, amusing banter that is their lyrics. You really need to get your hands on this fast, catchy demo CD so you can appreciate what the hell they're saying. As an oldskool Carpet Patrol fan, I was not dissapointed. I was pumped that my boys still got it.

the Flux

Eighteen funny ass, goofy punk tunes. Some of the songs are rather annoying with all the weird yelling and noises. I must admit though, the lyrics are some of the funniest I've ever heard. Songs about smelly feet and a refrigerator repairman's butt crack will knock you dead. " Walking In The Desert" is my favorite song here because of Bridget Murphy's sexy voice! Great cover of Blondie's "Heart Of Glass."

the Freeze

Wow! Not that I didn�t think that THE FREEZE didn�t still have it em; but this may be up there as my favorite of this-fuck-20 year long (plus) Boston outfit. The lyrics and music drip paranoia into plots of revenge like blood trickling, spurting, and coagulating from someone who�s been hung, stabbed and them given enough slack in the ropes to make everyone bloody. Yeah, and it�s a paranoia that�s infecting by the fact that the music has the balls of a galloping rhino stapled to tidal wave size melodies. Think of nice looking musical notes that are skulls instead of dots. The topics range from long-term revenge on a small label, making a 50lb batch of METH, self-loathing (�my enemy�s living inside me� and �it�s just sick desperation, all the meaning�s lost�), trips to the psychiatric ward, and cannibalism. What I also like about this release is that it�s not THE FREEZE doing �Greatest Hits� or THE FREEZE longing for �the good old days� and just fucking the past. For a bunch of guys who should be wrecked to the point they can�t form complete sentences, this Kicks and Splinters; there�s everything from hints of surf tones to a couple of songs that lay down full assaults like ATF agents being sicced on the wrong house. Think of The Descendents melodic pound with the classic Misfit�s lyrics; but instead of campy, you can actually picture lead singer Clif Hanger muttering them to himself under his breath as he passes you by on the way to a dumpster dive. Last note: I have no idea how they did it, but they got pretty fucking famous, gothically inclined artist Edward Gorey, not only to pen and ink the cover art, but got him in on the songwriting credits on �Alien Heads�. This is Way beyond Recommended!

Fuzzy

Great twelve song cd from these Boston popsters. The cd opens with rousting guitars in a very melancholic filled "Band Of Gold." The disc slows down for the harmony laced "Summer Is Gone." I don't know why, but "Summer"made me want to ball my eyes out! The vocals are shared between Hilken Mancini and Chris Toppin and they sound beautiful. The vocals have a 50's girl band sound with the way the duel and work off each other. The music is very catchy and loaded with melodies and harmonies. Although the entire disc is great, "Over The Edge" is my favorite here. It comes close to being a great pop punk tune. Check Fuzzy out

the Gadjits

I guess when you have an Elvis Costello/ska hybrid, and you throw a giant gob of soul and reggae at it, you recieve "wish we never met" by the Gadjits. A 4 piece from the midwest, the Gadjits create a refreshingly creative take on ska sensibilities and mod-rock, and write lyrics about life, in a very clever, playful and logical way. Not a boring disc in the very least, these 14 tracks span an original musical world and a poetic-yet-streetwise insight on personal experience.

Beginning with a short intro that gives you a peek of the cd's closer, "Wish We never Met" dives headfirst into a mid-paced-yet-frantic keyboard driven "somebodys wife", all about having the hots for a married woman. The semi-eerie minor mode the song is set in gives the song quite the feeling, as probably the next nearest-meaning songs would be "hot for teacher" by van halen, and "maggie may" by Rod Stewart, which we obviously know the musical tones of those. Aside from that, the cd goes on to hit other highlights. Songs such as "Outsider" and "angel and a devil" carry loads of lyric-metaphoric use into their upbeat musical company. Choruses are killer. end of story. they keep you whistling for hours after hearing, and you never get sick of it. "BC" is basically a letter-to-girl-turned-into-lyrics-to-a-song, and believe me, these lyrics are eons beyond the normal girl songs you might hear. no, its not emo in the least, but there is a knack for, again, that poetic-yet-street smart sound. its uncanny, and as far as i've heard, exclusive to the Gadjits.. "Wise Up" is NOT a cover of the Bim Skala Bim great, however, it carries more soul than any 19 year old kid could give it. Set to laid back-bluesy soul-reggae, the words just pierce your heart and make you believe a grizzled older guy pouring his heart into the trials and tribulations of relationships is singing it, when its a kid doing the same. the end of the song hits a chorus climax, completely provoking the listener just to cry out "yeah man, i hear ya"..touching touching....the blues guitar licks rule too. By the end of the cd, it feels like a big adventure was completed, and nothing better to settle down to than the upbeat "jenny jones (leave the death rock kids alone)"...quite the humourous account of a certain talk show host assaulting a marilyn manson girl. hand clapiin, chorus singing fun. the underlying shouts of "the beautiful people!" towards the songs "winding down" stage are damn funny...ahhh, great stuff.

Get this one too. i have no complaints. one of the best "whim" buys i've ever made. aye.

Goldfinger

Has it really been 3 years since Goldfinger released their second album, "Hang ups"? I remember the first time I heard Goldfinger. I was totally stoked by the sound. I loved it!!! Hang-Ups, being a very heavily ska influenced album was what I expected from "Stomping Ground" and more. Boy, were my instincts wrong. Somewhere between this 3 year period, Goldfinger got influenced by the sounds of the 80's and new wave stuff. This Album just does not live up to Goldfinger's usual standards. There is basically no ska at all in this album. In the words or JoeDisko from gotpunk.com, "some of the songs made me swear I was listening to Duran Duran". There are some good songs on this album like "Counting the Days" and "Pick a Fight", but to sum it up this record does not leave you waiting for their next album.

If you havent bought this album yet, I suggest you don't unless you are prepared to be disappointed. If you want to hear what Goldfinger is well-known for, get the self-titled CD and Hang-Ups. My guess is that "Stomping Ground" will disappoint a lot of Goldfinger's 3 year+ fans.

Godboy

Yet another genius release from the wackiest band from Boston. These guys wrap punk, folk, country, rock, and even some hard rock all together, which gives birth to the weirdest music ever. The lyrics are just as funny too. One can't help but to pay strict attention to the words to hear what comes next. The only problem with this disc is that it is only about sixteen minutes long. "Love Is Vapor" is my favorite of the eight songs. You must experience Godboy.

Good Clean Fun

Normally when the phrase "youth crew" is spoken, an image of die-hard kids with conviction behind their positive actions comes to mind. And camo shorts, champion sweatshirts and x'd hands etc..all that good stuff. Good Clean Fun uses the youth crew spirit as a force of positive change through their music, however, unlike any band of the such to date, they use a fairly good dose of humor too. "Shopping for a Crew" seems to poke fun at the 88' spirit and the youth crew concept when listened to without any background of what the band is about, but in the end it is all in good taste and nobody is being jeered at.

A handful of songs on this cd do have to do with certain issues and are void of sarcasm, such as "Good Clean Fun", "Who Shares Wins", and "A song for the Ladies". They exemplify real messages of the hXc spirit, unity, and the ladies in the scene-urging them to step up to the mic more often. Other tracks such as "Coll-Edge" "Sweet Tooth" and "The Vegan Draft Dodger Anthem" put situations into humorous account, such as the ever-so-classic "you lost your edge and stabbed us in the back" songs from back in the day (i.e Youth of Today, Wide Awake..), writing similar words, but with such underlying humor that you can't help but laugh. Other targets of interest are the vegan sXe kids, or the poser-ish ones at least.

Musically, this album gets my definite approval. I have often found myself dancing to the breakdowns in my room, and the faster passages run smoothly, without much "syllable fitting" in the lyrics as most 88' bands coem across. Rather simply completely mega-fuzzed out guitar, there is a fair share of melody through out the cd, my personal favorite being "who shares wins". As for the vocals, GCF singer Mr. Issa's parody of the macho sounding hXc singers pair with clever lyrics is nothing short of fun to listen to. With the gang vocals thrown in, the cd just cries "pile-on-sing-along!". "Shopping for a Crew" just feels good to listen to, whether you're in the mood to get angry about stuff, start floorpunching without a live band around, or want a good laugh.

The only criticism i would have for this disc is, its much too short. only 11 songs make it frustrating that the cd has to end so soon. Buy this one though. Even if you're not into their style, it should appeal to punk fans as well. Yeah, thats about it. Good Clean Fun is what the name implies.

the Grand Prixx

this was a cool 7". Most 7"s don't contain six songs. Neither did this one...technically. Whoever might label them "pop punk" is slightly off; this is fast furious melodic pogo. Its probably the most enjoyable 7" i've heard in a while.

Now, I sat down and started side one, curious about how "Grand prixx" "I like you" and "Don't wanna work" fit on one side. The craziness hit me like a ton of bricks, and before I knew it, a breathy female voice said "ooh, turn me over". I honestly couldn't tell that 3 seperate songs had started and finished. Nevertheless, I loved the way it sounded. It was fast and good. Period. Anyways, I turned the record over and listened to the other side prepared to hear a whirlwind of "One of those days" "Sierra&Kelly" and "Wish I could stay". It was just as melodic and energetic as the first side. I can't quite pin down which songs I enjoyed the most, because they were all hurled at me at lightning speed.

Basically, all I have to say is take $3 out of your wallet, find this 7" and buy it. Support Western MA punk rock. Whether its 2 songs or 6 songs, the Grand Prixx rules.

Grey Area

This is a really good disc, i just picked it up the other day. This record is a little different from their last one, it's much more poppy and more indie rock oriented. This is one of the best records i've heard in awhile, it's got great sing-a-longs and Ari Katz from the band Lifetime does some back-up vocals so you know it's got to be good!

the Hippos

The Hippos were probably remembered for their ska-punk contribution in the 97' explosion, with "Forget the World" (good album). However, in the short amount of time from then to now, they have done a lot of maturing, "Heads are gonna Roll" being the benchmark of that. Unlike the current trend of "we were ska, but now we're not because we're tired of it etc etc etc" (the ska scene has lost quite a few extremely good ska bands from this)..the Hippos keep that 97 spirit real, but with some really neat additions that enhance their sound, rather totally steamroll it and introduce an entirely new band.

Back from the "forget the world collection" are "Lost it" and "far behind", which are clear examples of their maturity. The original ska-punk feel is still very much present, but the Moog synth is thrown in there for extra texture and melody. Throughout the album, this seems to be the biggest addition along with new musical influences. "Thinking" sports an amazingly catchy set of horn riffs with that super-neato trombone harmonizing that the Hippos have always done. "Something" is an all out punk out from their standard, but again, the Moog makes it beyond a happy tune to hear. Their cover of "Always Something There To Remind Me" ROCKS. thats the only way to describe it. It might be the only track on the cd to have a totaly loss of their old sound, but that doesn't matter in the least. sure that song was new wave, but there's no way you can ignore the Hippos version. Through the rest of the cd, melody just dominates, making it an extremely pleasing listen. Damn, its just so happy. It'll take plastic surgery to remove the smile from your face, no matter who you are. In a way this disc reminds me of They Might Be Giants?, due to the aforementioned happiness factor, and the fact that its for anyone.

As usual, my complaint at the end of the review. Lyrically, c'mon. I mean i don't even think i've heard an emo album with so many songs about girls. If they were really touching, i'd let this slide, but i think the Hippos guys went a little too far with the story of boy meets girl. Two Songs have a different meaning "He Said", its about a wise old man with life advice, and "Far Behind" which is more of a general personal reflection. 12 other songs kind of destroy the point. Nevertheless, this album is a musical landmark in my eyes. If the Hippos happen to stumble upon this review in some strange way, I'd like to thank Dan Hippos for letting me play kazoo with them at the show:O)

Immortal Alice

I first heard these guys on Riffage.com and when I found out they were from Mass I was psyched. Immortal Alice is a really different kind of band. At first I thought they were punk, but then I heard more and they are really hard to categorize, which is great.

The CD just came out and I picked it up at Sam Goody in Taunton (I joined their fan club and the day they told me it was released I went and got it!).

The first song is called Armageddon A Go-Go, and it has a kind of MMB feel to it, but without the horns. It's really good ska-punk, better than average for sure.

The second song is called Swaili Death Chant and is a really weird and dark song. The singer's voice is totally diffrent on this one, really good. It has a great beat and gets on a heavy groove. This is one of the best songs.

Who's Laughing Now is the next song and it's really phat, great dancehall ska-core. The singing is awesome and it makes you wanna jump around. I LOOOVE this song! My second favorite!

Obvious is song four. It's a really fast Face to Face style punk song with great words about racism and relationships and nice vocals again. It's like a minute long, but it packs a wallop!

Exile of Bob (in Three Acts) is track 5. It's very funky and dark, and has a great chorus. It doesn't sound like anybody I can compare it too, but it's really catchy and makes ya move.

APE is the next song, it's very poppy and sounds like a big radio hit kind of song. I love the words and the songs ADDICTIVE!

Number seven is called Three Legged Chair and is a REALLY different sounding song! It's impossible to describe, but I REALLY like it alot. The chorus reminds me a little bit of Nirvana.

Dry is eight. This is a short reggae sounding song, very upbeat with an awesome base line and great words. This is a hit song, too.

The last song is MY FAVORITE! it's called Vultures, and it's my favorite song by ANYBODY right now. The words are poetic and beatiful and the song just kicks ass. It's like mellow F2F but better. the chorus is great and the guitar solo is amazing.

Well, as you can see I LOVE thisband and the album and recommend it to anyone who wants to hear something different. The whole album is great, there isn't a bad song on it, my only criticism is it's only 9 songs! I wanted more!!

Infernal Combustion

I have been a fan of Infernal Combustion since 1998, and i must say that every release they have put out has totally blown me away. They just keep getting better and better - and "16..." is no exception. It is fulfilling from beginning to end. Both "Worth A Golden Coin" and "Girls On Tv"[my favorite songs on the tape] are light-hearted looks at the infatuations that can develop towards movie stars and even random "girls on tv"...i'm sure anyone can relate. Green, White, & Blue is a teenage anthem about not wanting to go to school and feeling like you have wasted yr whole summer. The tape concludes with an incredible cover of the song "I Can See Clearly Now". I must say that the only complaint I have about this release would be that I wish it was a full-length rather than an Ep...so that i would have more than four songs of IC to listen to=) All in all, i would really recommend this release to just about anyone who likes good, heartfelt pop-punk music.

In My Eyes

First off, sXe hardcore is not my thing. The only band that im really into is Embrace Today, cuz their band played with mine a bunch of times and we have mutal respect for each others cause an shit. But, I bought In My Eyes after hearing it at my neighbors house. Lemme tell ya that this is one of the best albums ive heard in a while. 2 things wrong with it..the first song is not the one they should have opened with, and the damn cd is way too short. It's not even 20 mins, but, the album is good enough to put back in right after its done. Some of the better tracks are The Big Dig, Welcome to Boston and Making Sense. The CD is fast furious and full of singalongs for the kids who do that stuff.

Jeepers H. Crackers

'Is That a Gang Symbol?' is one of the most rockin' cds to come out of Massachusetts in a long time. JHC puts down 10 punk/ska songs tha make you want to dance and sing along. They even do a kick ass cover of Operation Ivy's Jaded. My favorite picks from the cd are "Spluge Chew" and "The Boy Band Song." So if you are sick of all the ska bands turning emo, buy this. It is punk/ska at its finest.

Johnny Wishbone

These guys offer up a pretty original sound combining funk, metal, and a touch of hip-hop. The sound is mainly heavy funk with a touch of metal to harden things up a bit. I must give JW credit for not taking the easy, and much traveled, path of Korn and Limp Bizkit. Instead, they follow the likes of Fishbone and 24-7 Spies. They play it hard and soft, but still kick your teeth in. If you are tired of all those metal/rap bands out there, give Johnny Wishbone a try. You will be surprised.and happy. - Denis Sheehan

the Juliana Theory

This is an amazing record, melodic and powerful, this band is one of the best emo bands out there, their very true and real, great music to relate to and cry.

Penis Fly Trap

Penis Flytrap: Fifteen very cool punk tunes. The songs are not the fastest, but they are driven into your head. Great guitars with attitude laced lyrics will leave you musically fulfilled. Every song is great, however "Photo Of A Dead Man" and " Punk Rock Is Dead" are my favs here. I love this band. Kermit's Finger: Twenty-two fast and furious songs that scream punk rock. None of the songs are over two minutes long. I love that! I love "Punk Rock Bus Driver." Hell, I loved every song. Hey, this is one very cool disc. Buy it.

Link 80

Long awaited is the new Link 80 CD, and I happened to get an advanced copy. Due out in late February under the title �The Struggle Continues,� it is a definite reflection of what Link 80 has gone through and what they have now become. Having not released any new material since past lead singer Nick Traina�s death, and the dismissal of Stoney (a former roadie turned lead), not to mention only three original members remain, many people have become weary of what Link 80 may have turned into. Some think that they don�t exist anymore.

The CD reflects a change; a more adult sound. They are no longer 17 and it shows. I know the first time I heard it, it didn�t seem that it was Link 80 that I was listening to. Ryan�s voice is more melodic than Nick�s or Stoney�s were. Not so cut and dry. He sounds like he could be your older brother- only with a little tiger backing him up. Anger and frustration is not the way he gets his message out- more of a pleading cry.

No Asian Man recording goes untouched by Mike Park. Singing the mellowed out version of the Madness� �My Girl,� he brings a pleasant sound. There is also a song called �Nothing New� which is an old Blast Bandits song, Ryan�s old band. The songs all have a different tone to them. Racism is still one of their biggest battles they write about. This time there are also songs about love, poverty, misunderstandings, and missing a friend they all lost.

There are more horns backing up the band in the recording. Only two horns are now with the band, but they double and triple tracked on the CD. The best part is that they have a bigger influence in the sound. No, they are not turning super ska on people, they are actually showing what �Skacore� can become. The music is less skankable but something that is just plain good to listen to. There is a greater difference in the recording from 17 Reasons and Killing Katie: they are developing parts of their musical influences into a giant melting pot. Don�t expect songs like �Verbal Kint� or �Dime Store Hoods� on this CD- you won�t find them. Instead I think you will be pleasantly surprised with a new, warmer sound.

Matt Depressed

This new Fifteen track disc from Southern Massachusetts best aggressive rock/power punkers will have you whirling in a musical abyss. The conflagration of songs are fueled by Bob Kadlec's intense guitar and John Stone's insane drumming (sounds as if John is the Charles Manson of drummers). Throw in Peter Walsh's cynical lyrics and Vic Leemon's rhythmic bass thumping and you have enough energy to out power the sun. The songs mainly focus on ill fated relationships and sex. "I Can't Here You," and the one liners in "It's Time To Fuck" will floor you! The disc concludes with the merry sounding sing along-drink along pub tune "Cheers (Raise A Pint)." Yes, you will be the subject of discussion if you fail to buy this cd!

the Medveds

After many years, a few 7 inch releases, countless shows, and a few delays, The Medveds have finally released their first compact disc. The music on this 25 song disc is best described as "Nautical Punk." Nautical Punk you ask? If Captain William Kid needed a band to motivate his ship full of pirates before pillaging a coastal town of their money, booze, and woman, The Medveds would be offered a full time job. That, my friend, is Nautical Punk. Along with a whirlpool of melodic riffs and hooks, Adam Thorsell and Ben Hunter share the contradicting vocals. Adam's voice is smoothly strong, while Ben's voice is down right gritty and almost "drunken" sounding. The songs are led by Jeremy Brady's strong lead guitar, as drummer Eric Altieri and bassist Larry Ramona round up the pounding rhythm section. From the seaside marching sound heard in "In Like Flynn," to the inferior complex laden "A Stiff Like Me," to the melody stricken "She Won't Shave Her Legs," to the passionate loneliness in "Sort Of," this disc is loaded with a non-stop barrage of unique Nautical Punk. There is even a cool, hyped out instrumental called "Western Pill Party!" Although I love this entire disc, "BC Headache Powder" is my favorite here, as is "Ned the Pirate," as is "Cindy is a Man," you get the picture. - Denis Sheehan

Me First and the Gimmie Gimmies

Midtown

This is one of those bands that is very generic but is still very fun and emotional at the same time. They have a unique sound, mixing punk rock with emo to make a pretty good mix. I'm not too crazy about the vocals but the rest of the record is really good, also the lyrics are a little cheesy here and there but overall it's a good record...so check it out for yourself!

Millencolin

Millencolin rocks. They're out with a new CD called Pennybridge Pioneers. It's a bit different from their other releases like Life on a Plate, the tempo is down a bit. It doesn't take anything away from them however, even though it's a bit slower, this CD still rocks. There are still some faster songs on this cd to keep the long time Millencolin fan interested. This is my favorite disk for the week, I'm very happy to have picked this up. 14 tracks, I still haven't found one I really dislike. It's on sale at Newbury Comics for like 10 bucks this week (because it just came out). Any Millencolin fan, old or new, should pick this up, it's great.

the Mission 120

This CD is one that will not fail you. It's a great bit of pop-punk from Jon, A.J., and Neil. Straight through the CD are intelligent punk rock songs, complete with octave leads crashing cymbals and flawless three part harmonies. This CD is full of great songs, quality musicianship, creative songwriting, and quite relfective of Misson 120's talent. I think it's the start of something great. I'm looking forward to the next production of Mission 120's simply because this one is great! A definite must have.

Nerf Herder

Nerf Herder released their self titled debut on My Records back in '96, it immediatly got the attention of a large CA radio station. Thanks largely in part by the phones ringing off the hook for "Van Halen", Nerf Herder signed on to a bigger deal w/ Arista Records and we all know what happened after that. Now, Nerf Herder is back and on an indepent label nonetheless, bringing us 11 more rockin' pop punk tracks on "How to Meet Girls".

From the start of the first track "Vivian" I knew this album was a winner, from start to the last note of track 11 "Pervert" this album had me chuckling, wishing I wrote these simple, but funny lyrics and wanting more. It's the same old Nerf Herder I came to love from the self titled, only better production, better song writing and a fatter sound that was missing on the first release. My personal picks are "Feeling Bad..." which includes a synsthesised instrument of some sort during the chorus and "Life on Mars" (about that "hale bop" cult ..remember that?). Also, a highlight is "She's a Sleestak", I almost forgot what a sleestak was until, TANDP's own Aaron Ronnie McDonnie Garvey reminded me ...do your research, it's worth it!

If you like pop punk, Nerf Herder is simply one of the best bands around. They're easy to listen to often and frequently, without getting annoyed with the "Ahhh Ohhh Whooaa" back up vocals that plague so many pop punk bands pretending to be the beach boys. Add their humorus, witty and oh-so-nerdful lyrics and you'll soon be a fan. While the music isn't groundbreaking, this album does what rock n' roll was meant to do: entertain and have a good time.

New Found Glory

This band is very awsome. They have a sound completely unique to them (unusual in punk music). The fact that they have a sing instead of a singer/guitarist(ect.), lets them create the most powerfull, emotion filled songs you will ever hear. They have greatly integrated 2 guitars and have some of the best riffs in punk music today. Their bassist is awsome, what can I say but he has "great chops". Great drums, a big deviation from the usual repetitive snare and hat punk beats. After every thing here though I am still stuck on the meaningfull lyrics and emotion filled singing. I haven't heard a bad song from them yet (I have heard every song that was ever recorded). check out A New Found Glory at www.anewfoundglory.com !!! If you like them than you mite want to check out an other east coast punk band called Saves The Day. I could probably apply this whole review to them as well but if I had to choose between a "Saves The Day" cd and a "A New Found Glory" as the only cd I ever get than I would choose ANFG because they have just a tad less emotion with a buttload more power. I hope that you enjoy the new cd's that I know you will run out and buy after hearing them the first time.

NOFX

Here's one definition of Punk Music, accelerated music which summons comedic lyrics blended with brisk and furious guitars, bass, along with a moderate smashing of drums! Such great, and at times, annoying music! NOFX are the masters of punk. Punk is not Blink182, who now, are Pop stars. NOFX IS Punk. NOFX's efforts are so brilliant it leaves me giant goosebumbs just thinking about all their albums, a very vast collection indeed! Their latest installment of music has a different touch in comparison of their previous CDs. The fact that they changed a bit was an outrage at first, but after listening to The Decline about the third time I fell in love with this CD. Simply a classic. The Decline is composed of one song, lasting about eight-teen minutes. Some may be disappointed by the abrupt end of the song, but believe me you can listen to it over and over again. And the best thing is, it'll sound better each time you press that triangle button. For slow idiots, the play button. Mike's singing is stuffed with bravery, bearing a narrow view on religion and politics. Rhythm has upright timing with a respectable choice of words. Anyone can sing along with it. Hell, even my Dad joins me in doing so. It has nicely executed guitars, bass, and drums. There are even sound effects that really enhance the music, although I prefer the rawness of NOFX. The Decline doesn't seem like one song, because after a few minutes it'll have a different beat and execution of melodies. Mainly the Pro is everything, lyrics are tasty as the paste of music, and the main Con is the shortness. NOFX's masterpiece is original. Lyrics are finger-pointing on who's to blame for today's society. Most lines are very accurate and down to the point. If I were to be stranded on a remote island with only a CD player and one billion packs of batteries, The Decline would be on my top 5 list for which CDs to bring. The elite, underground band is at their shiniest quality, having many, many years ahead. Hearing the musical masterpiece as I write this review, it leaves me an overbearing anticipation for their next album. NOFX Rules! Truly, this is worth all your Abraham Lincoln's!

the Pills

The Pills are definitely Boston's best power pop band! The songs are fast, catchy, and have a great rhythm to them. "The Devil's Song" is a great pop tune with a hint of ska and should be getting airplay all over the place. These guys could be the next "big thing" out of Boston. Look, this disc is very cool. Just get out there and buy it

Pop Unknown

This is one of the best records i've heard in a long time, it's just so powerful and moving, it touches your heart like no other record, just check it out you won't regret it!

Promise Ring

Penny for penny, this was a pretty good buy. Some may classify these guys as "old alternative crap that got re-labeled 'emo' ", but if you ask me, this is very emotional music. "The Horse Latitudes" is an 8 song ep, which is a great thing, because its all good music, and it knows when to say when. I mean, I've heard some emo albums that i'll only listen to the first 8 tracks because the effect dies after those. This cd is smartly planned and full of quality musicianship, and worth a shot for those not able to formulate their own opinion on emo music.

Being a short cd, the songs aren't so much the highlight, as its existence as an album is. Starting with "Watertown Plank", the cd begins as an interesting listen. Emo vocalists are easily stereotyped, but in this case, the sound isn't so painful. On this track, the lyrics soar honestly, and it just harnesses listener interest. The emotional climaxes of songs are well executed, best being in the first four tracks "Watertown Plank" "Mineral Point" "A Picture Postcard" and "Saturday". I guess a great way to describe the album is Audio Modern Art. The ep ends with "I Never Trusted The Russians", which is a neat little tune in itself, but again, with the Modern Art analogy, I don't get the correclation between the title and lyrics. "Yeah I'm eatin but I'm losing weight again/like I could faint, faint and fade away".

Now, I appreciated this cd for what it is, and I would recommend it to anyone. However, for the anti-emo people, forget about it. As this cd is the epitomy of emotional and poetic, this might not be for those who consider those things in music to be bad. My only complaint is, the song "A Picture Postcard" was a bit too blatantly sappy for me. You know, "one last kiss before the bus leaves" that kind of thing. I mean, thats great, but it would have been more beautiful if more elaborately stated.

Beyond the Valley

The Queers have been pumping out some of the world's finest Pop Punk since 1982, and this new release only solidifies their position atop the "Coolest Pop Punk Bands in the World" list. The music is an intense blend of three-chord, Ramones like punk rock with the addictive melodies and harmonies of 1950's rock. Along with the music, is Joe Queer's truly hilarious and crude lyrics. With songs titles such as "Stupid Fucking Vegan," "I Hate Your Fucking Guts," "Just Say Cunt," and "I Just Called To Say Fuck You," it's no wonder the cd starts off with a track called "Uncouth!" I honestly laughed my arse off at the song titles and I couldn't wait to listen to this disc. The lyrical content in "My Cunt's a Cunt" is sure to land The Queers on NOW's most hated and least venerated list of men. The Queers produce a musical bag of tricks. The music itself is fast, yet melodically catchy, and fools you into thinking everything is simply grand. However, the closer you listen the more you realize that Joe Queer and his boys are just as pissed off as they were 15 years ago. In this case, the "Pop" in Pop Punk is the sound of The Queers popping you in the mouth with their music. Great disc, you'll enjoy the beating.- Denis Sheehan

the Sellouts

:"Don't keep it to yourself/Share it with the world," plead vocalists Ted Billings and Will Spitz of the Sellouts on "Last Laugh", one of 13 songs featured on the Duxbury, MA band's newest release, entitled "Get Takeout." As myself or anyone else who has purchased this album can attest to, the Sellouts' rockin' brand of ska/punk is indeed worthy of such a request, leaving me no choice but to follow their advice. The leadoff track, "Italy," an offbeat anecdote describing an infatuation with another boy's mother, begins with a short guitar part followed by the classic groove of the band's 3-piece horn section. Played at a medium tempo, the song effortlessly combines the musical pace of the Hippos with the boundless energy of Big D. As the album proceeds, its catchy melodies becoming magnetized to the brain, other highlights include the sing-along chorus of "One of a Kind", the insanely fast chorus of "The Way Things Work", and the speedy horn lines of "Hey Mister." As any good CD should, "Get Takeout" concludes with a bang. The infectious closer, entitled "5.25", offers a mild introduction that gives way to an inspiring chorus and an exciting climax. Perhaps the only drawback associated with this amazing CD is the Sellouts' lone attempt at a straight-up punk song. "Breathmint", a sub-minute anthem akin to Big D's "Apology", sounds oddly out of place. Otherwise, this CD is an ideal purchase, possibly able to satisfy the demands of someone seeking a post "Good Luck" album that can even approach Big D's stunning effort. In my own opinion, "Get Takeout" not only equals it, but in some instances surpasses it with catchy songs and great ska/punk melodies

Seventeen

Seventeen plays the same type of intense punk rock that Iggy Pop is famous for. However, they had a certain flair to their music which enables it to stand alone and be appreciated for it's refreshing sound. The tempo of the music is generally fast, but they are so melodic and catchy you have no choice but to become addicted to it's unique sound. Nothing negative can be said about this debut seven song cd/ep. Seventeen might just be the next big thing to storm Boston

Shadows Fall

the Sheila Divine

This band has gotten alot of bad reviews because their on Roadrunner Records but who cares? There an amazing band just a little over produced and their lyrics are hard to understand but overall an impressive band.Melodic and powerful...straight to the point emo.

Showcase Showdown

Once again, the Showcase Showdown do a fine job. After hearing "Appetite of Kings" I thought pogo punk couldn't get any better, and I was very wrong. With more clever lyrics than you can shake a stick at and a masterful approach to 3-chord, sometimes 2-chord punk, this album refuses to leave the listener's head, never mind the cd player itself.

This is more or less a collection of funny observations and super-fun choruses, but with a bite only the Showcase Showdown tends to give. Ping-Pong's voice invades your head, rather forcing the words into your skull as with many a punk singer. Songs that caught my ear were basically the ones that never left, "Tonite Tonite" (not smashing pumpkins, sorry, but that would have been hilarious), "duty free", "brainwashed", "I've got a date with louise woodward" and the ever so intriguing "fuck you norway" (the song doesn't make a whole lot of sense, but hey, its catchy). Amidst the high energy levels on all of these songs, a few neat ways to look at situations are provided too, such as living in the customs section of an airport in order to defy allegiance to any country (c'mon, you can't tell me you ever thought of that), and various methods to rip off enterprisements as a form of revenge (i.e giving away trade secrets). Thats not too original, but a great direction to send punk music rather being angered without action. These guys definitely separate themselves from the rest.

Looking for something to jump around to? Have little pocket money, but need some punk with a lot of milage? Feeling the need to be enlightened? Permanent Stains. It reminds me of the Dead Kennedys having a baby with Monty Python's Flying Circus.

the Statue Factor

Ah yes, once again The Statue Factor has thrown me for a loop. This is one tough band to review. Luckily, I really like this disc so I will take on the challenge of reviewing this disc. The music is a beautiful blend of rock with punk influences, an organ which gives it a late 60�s psychedelic flavor, searing guitar riffs, rhythmic bass and drums, and a feeling of intensity to wrap it all up into an enjoyable ball of music. All that music is nicely brought together by Joseph Coelho�s vocals. This is a cool Boston area band with an addictive, unique sound. Check them out!

Stinkbomb

stinkbomb is western mass punk rock at its finest. they play fast, catchy punk rock that will have you singing along in no time. the songs are about everything from girls to freindship to even more girls. this is definetly a must have.

Suicide Machines

I was a huge fan of the Suicide Machines first national release "Destruction by Defination" and the band changed their sound on the follow up 1998's "Battle Hymns". That's when the inconsistences started and it's reinforced here on their latest full length, the suicide machines.

The album is full of poppy, college rock that sounds a lot like a combination of Sebadoh, Green Day and the Get Up Kids ...just not done well. The songs carry that sound throughout most of the disc, as opposed to the hardcore-punk anthems that were found on their last album, or the fun-filled punk/ska songs found on their first. The fact that the album is the same name as their band makes me wonder, espically on their 3rd release. It's basically stating that the SONGS on "the Suicide Machines -the ALBUM" is the best representation of how "THE SUICIDE MACHINES -the band" sounds, which I find quite dissapointing. This is not the same band I grew to love after wearing out my copy of their first release and it's not the album I was hoping for after the dissappointing "Battle Hymns".

The best track, the only track worth more than one listen, on the entire disc is the song "Green". It's a newer version of a song they originally released on an early demo. Though that track stands out among the rest, listening to the song "I Hate Everything" makes me completely lose faith in what was once a great, respectable band. The song sounds like an out-take from a Korn or Limp Bizkit CD. Rock/Hip Hop verses (complete w/ turntables) leading into heavy metal anthem-like chorus "I hate everything!", this may leave Bizkit's Fred Durnst jealous, but it just puts a bad feeling in my stomach. This feeling was doubled when I noticed the paper I got from the record label and the band requesting we play that particular track on our "loud music" shows at the radio station I work for.

Though I recieved an advance copy of this CD back in December for free, I feel like I got ripped off. I wish they titled the album "Let's Play Some Emo-Rock Tunes and Toss in a Limp Bizkit Style Song because the Punk/Ska and Hardcore Stuff Doesn't Pay Off Like it Used To". That way, the older fans expecting great songs that were found on earlier releases would be warned. Maybe the Suicide Machines should try using the tool that they've named themself after. Then again they're doing it by releasing this CD.

Time to Rise

OH MAN...this album will knock your socks off!!! This is the debut from the hardcore/metal sextet outta Westford MA. Theres Right from the start it comes in with an appropriote sound clip from a Rambo movie, the music starts, and then its 25 minutes of getting your ass whupped!!! The vocals are delivered 3 different ways, one, from Liam Flahery is grizzly and rough, two, from Matt Dean screeching and angst ridden, and three, Seth Beadrealt (sp?) primal and loud, he also plays lead guitar. The basslines are provided by Scott Fabrizio and coverbands beware they are complicated Les Claypool-esqe slappers. The other guitar is Justin Collangelo, who sings for XelementX. The pounding double bass pedal is of course the drummer Nick Nunns. Theres 7 songs on the cd including one instrumental, which is a rarity for a hardcore band and just makes this cd that much better. The cd sells cheap,($5)you can get it at all shows they play, the shows of any other Brunswick Records(their label)bands, or off of their website by mail-order. I give it an 11 out of 10

Toxic Narcotic

Holy Boston hardcore Batman! Nineteen old school, hardcore punk rock tunes so vicious it will make your ears bleed. The music is faster than President Clinton chasing after an intern, and the vocals are of the screaming, raspy variety. Even thought the music is insanely fast, each song has it�s own sound and is very melodic. As far as the drumming, it is some of the best hardcore drumming I have heard in a very long time. Old schoolers take note!

Tree

This is Tree�s first studio cd in a couple of years and believe me when I say it�s well worth the wait. Tree continues to pump out some of today�s greatest punk rock. The music will knock the pictures off your walls while River�s intensely sung lyrics will make you think of today�s society and environment. �Pesticide� deals with all the chemicals that we are breathing, eating, and drinking and �Burning Seed� is about the lingering affects of war. Tree never ceases to amaze and gets better with every disc. Allow Tree to take root in your brain. You will not regret it.

Various Artists - Outsider Records

The title is ironic, the price is right, and the music is good. Rather spanning just one record label like the highly acclaimed Fat Wreck or Asian Man comps, this one in particular roamed all over the map and gave many different bands exposure. Seeing this is a namely Boston punk webpage, you will all be glad to hear that Boston makes a very strong showing on the cd. As a matter of fact, Boston punk rock is what makes the comp so great.

The Dropkicks classic "nobody's hero" punches like a madman and pretty much defines the fact that Boston is a force to be reckoned with on the disc. The Showcase Showdown's "get out" is almost the best track, in all of its snotty pogo punk glory. However, they don't quite measure up to The Explosion's "channels". These guys overshadow all the songwriting on the comp-its catchy as hell, the melody drives, and the vocals are just plain well done and a refreshing breath of air after alot of the dirty grunting alot of the bands present. Other notable tracks included "white trash ghetto" by Dead Empty. It reminded me alot of the Ducky Boys, but the Ducky Boys rule, so this did as well. Also, Boots and Braces made an appearance, a real irish punk band really from Ireland. Good Good.

And as usual, the tracks to skip over. 999's "nasty" was extremely annoying. Its one thing to have an infectious voice, or a higher snotty one, but I just kep yelling "shut up!" at the radio-it was so annoying, and it really had nothing good to say. The only ska showing on the cd came from the Oi!Strs (very punny), and it wasn't very good ska at all. I must say the bass playing was very very good. Everything else in "Oi! To the Drinkin Boys" was, well, crummy.

Giving it an academic grade, its a solid B+. Over 30 bands populate the cd, not all of it is worthwhile, but its a good buy

the Vigilantes

Does anyone sometimes just need a quick fix of good street punk? I know I do every now and then. For anyone with the same type of problem, do I have a damn good CD for you. The Vigilantes release "City Lights That Lead the Way..." is 13 tracks of pure Boston street punk. With tracks like "the only way", "too old to work, too young to die", and "another stranger" this CD will have you singing along the second you open the lyrics booklet. I quite literally just got this CD yesterday after I saw the Vigils on Friday for the second time. I popped this into my cd player, and I don't think it has left it since then. This CD is just plain good, I can't find a song that I dislike on this release. It's just good punk rock i guess. Go check this one out, it's worth it

Voice of Reason

This is a unique record but a cheesy attempt at old school hardcore, but it's catchy, melodic, and there's some great sing a longs, overall an excellent record if you can look over the recording quality.

Wedgie

If you're into bands from indie labels such as Fat Wreck, Honest Don's, and Lookout, you'll love Wedgie. This powerful trio out of Rhode Island packs a cool sound of raw garage pop punk with one mean sounding guitar. These guys nicely weave a pop punk sound with a guitar that often strays into the sound of hard rock and even metal. The intro to "Tube Truth" would make Rob Zombie drool until the songs turns into a pure slam dance of a punk tune. To put it in culinary terms, Wedgie throws punk, rock, and a touch of metal into a blender and purees it with catchy hooks and melodies. Go get yourself a wedgie you won't soon forget!- Denis Sheehan

Wide Awake

From one of the most legendary bands from the '88 era comes this most convenient disc. Everything they ever released on one cd, how great is that? Wide Awake plays (uhh..played, i mean) hardcore fast and furious with killer breakdowns. All classic youth crew singalongs and fun-to-dance-to harcore charm, the 25 Song Discography is worth your 11 bucks.

Albeit this album does have the predictable "you stabbed us in the back", many more issues are tackled, such as good decision making, racism, friends, and fighting. "the Last Straw" opens the album strong, resonating "YOU LIED TO ME!!" throughout the song, with criticism of selfish liars paired with prafty hardcore guitar work. "Insight" displays some good spoken word at the beginning, follwed with floorpunchable rhythms and lightning fast verses. Some live tracks are included (actually, making up half the album), which really capture the essence of the old days, illustrating a picture of bodies hurtling through the air and x-ed fists in the air. The songs are faster, and vocals much more passionate sounding on the live tracks.There is also a cover of 7 Seconds to end the cd, which is great, because 7 Seconds is great, and Wide Awake does a good job with "Committed for Life" .

While this is a top notch hardcore album, the title kind of lies. It should be "12 song discography", or something like that, because many songs appear twice, and in some cases ("last straw", "wide awake","friendship"), the first appearance of the song is better than the second. In between tracks 9-13, the background vocals are really weak too. Even with that said, this album gets the nod.