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Ricky Warwick – ‘Blood Ties’ (Earache Records)

Ricky Warwick – ‘Blood Ties’ (Earache Records)

Not content with resurrecting his old band The Almighty and continuing to fly the Thin Lizzy flag with Black Star Riders in recent years, singer/songwriter Ricky Warwick returns with a brand-new solo album entitled ‘Blood Ties’, the follow up to 2021’s ‘When Life Was Hard and Fast’

Produced by friend, collaborator and former Buckcherry guitar slinger Keith Nelson, ‘Blood Ties’ is a personal and life affirming album that sees the Northern Irish troubadour amp up the guitars and deliver the goods, with the help of a few famous friends along the way.

‘Angels Of Desolation’ is a strong album opener for sure and sets the scene for this 10 track affair of the rock n’ roll heart (11 including the CD only bonus cut ‘Not My Circus’). Upbeat and euphoric in equal measures, it’s up there commercially with his best work. A punchy rocker of a tune with a killer chorus. The crisp production job highlight’s the crunching guitars and the powerhouse drums to the max. It’s a life affirming ride down a path of self-destruction and out the other side intact. “So, you think I’ve had enough?” Ricky begs the question as the instruments fade.

Next up, ‘Rise & Grind’ is a more poignant look at the homeless situation in L.A. and features the ripping, wah-wah infused guitar work of Blackberry Smoke main man Charlie Starr, sounding like he’s having the time of his life here, free from the constraints of his Southern Rock day job.

Enlisting Lita Ford to duet on ‘Don’t Leave Me In The Dark’ is a bit of a dream come true for Runaways fan boy Ricky. The jangly, 60’s guitar intro leads into a smouldering vocal before Lita’s unmistakable velvety tones take over. The male/female juxtaposition works like a dream on the killer hook, and with its instant commercial feel and poppy vibe, it’s no surprise it was chosen as the lead single.

The Thin Lizzy influence raises their head on ‘The Crickets Stayed In Clover’. Bittersweet, yet as catchy as the common cold, it’s a trademark Ricky Warwick style single and an instantly satisfying song that remains an album highlight after multiple plays.

Side one ends strong with ‘Don’t Sell Your Soul To Fall In Love’, a slow burner that builds to a chorus with the angst, the blood, fire and love of a classic Almighty tune.

So, turning the virtual needle and we are met with a more, dare I say, ‘contemporary modern rock’ feel with the likes of ‘Dead & Gone’ and ‘The Town That Didn’t Stare’. And while it doesn’t really hit the euphoric heights of side one, it certainly has its moments. The Cult legend Billy Duffy leads the way with his unmistakable guitar licks on ‘The Hell Of Me And You’. Here, Ricky delivers an effortlessly cool vocal while Mr. Duffy solos like its 1989! Top stuff indeed. Elsewhere, ‘Crocodile Tears’ has a killer chorus, with some sublime backing vocals that seal the deal. The kingpin of side two for sure, is it me or is there Bryan Adams vibes going on here? And bonus closing track ‘Not My Circus’ continues to embrace the ghost of Thin Lizzy to the max, a worthy addition to the album.

‘Blood Ties’ is a surprisingly upbeat and strong album from one of the UK’s original rock survivors. Whether you know him from Black Star Riders, The Almighty or from touring with his heroes Stiff Little Fingers, there is plenty to enjoy here. With not an acoustic guitar in sight, ‘Blood Ties’ is a full-blown rock album that sees the songwriter dig deep and bare his soul more than he ever has before. An outstanding record that is up there with the best of ‘em so far this year, get it while it’s hot.  

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Author: Ben Hughes

SMALLTOWN TIGERS UNVEIL VIDEO AND DATES!

SMALLTOWN TIGERS UNVEIL VIDEO AND DATES!

Italian punks SMALLTOWN TIGERS have unveiled a new video ahead of three UK shows at the end of March.

‘Meet Me In The City’ is the second single to be taken from last year’s full-length debut Crush On You.

The trio from the beachside resort of Rimini first came to the attention of UK audiences when they were chosen to open for The Damned on their 2022 original line-up reunion tour, and subsequent Euro dates, Captain Sensible declaring them “Absolutely lovely… genuinely full of the spirit of rock’n’roll.”

Reacting to the passing of longtime fan Brian James, who first brought the girls to his bandmates’ attention, the Tigers say “We want to dedicate this one to Brian James, a great guitarist and a true supporter of our journey. His passion and energy meant the world to us, and his music will live on.

This one’s for you, Brian.”

Smalltown Tigers play…

Fri 28 Mar – Hope & Anchor, London (w/ King Salami & The Cumberland Three) tickets

Sat 29 Mar – Saks Underground, Southend-on-Sea

Sun 30 Mar – Prince Albert, Brighton (matinee) tickets

Crush On You is available now through Area Pirata

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Jesse Malin – Limited tickets for second show

Jesse Malin – Limited tickets for second show

JESSE MALIN
LIVE IN LONDON
ISLINGTON ASSEMBLY HALL
1st & 2nd MAY 2025

first night sold out
limited number of tickets for second show available
HERE  

BENEFIT CONCERTS
featuring special guests
BILLY BRAGG, PETER PERRETT
(both appearing on the second night)
more to be announced

The New York City-based rock singer-songwriter Jesse Malin suffered a rare spinal stroke in May 2023 that left him paralysed from the waist down. The release of a star-studded tribute album entitled ‘Silver Patron Saints : The Songs Of Jesse Malin’ in September 2024 was accompanied by tickets going on sale for a special benefit concert in London at Islington Assembly Hall on 1st May. It sold out immediately, so an additional date was announced for the following evening at The Garage venue close by. With that also sold out, it has been moved back to Islington Assembly Hall, with a further 300 tickets made available HERE from 12pm today (28th February). Tickets already purchased for The Garage event remain valid for the new date.

Malin made a return to the stage at the Beacon Theatre in New York City last December for two benefit concerts to help pay for his ongoing rehabilitation. They were the biggest hometown shows of his career and he was joined by a host of guest musicians. The same formula is to be replicated in London where the likes of Billy Bragg and Peter Perrett have already been confirmed to appear with him.



“I have a really special connection to London, as it was the first place that truly embraced me when my debut album came out and it is always very meaningful to play there,” Malin has previously stated. “I am blown away by the response to these shows and am so excited to play them. Thank you once again for all the love and support. You guys are the best.”

Iggy Pop played Bruce Springsteen’s cover of Malin’s ‘She Don’t Love Me Now’ on his weekly BBC 6 Music show on 23rd February, commenting that “Jesse’s a really talented songwriter, whose approach to writing reflects the people of New York maybe more than Johnny Thunders, New York Dolls and even The Ramones.”

Official Site  |  Instagram  |  Facebook

LOUD WOMEN Sunday returns to Rebellion Festival’s Introducing Stage on August 10th

LOUD WOMEN Sunday returns to Rebellion Festival’s Introducing Stage on August 10th

REBELLION FESTIVAL SET TO RETURN 7th – 10th OF AUGUST

AT THE WINTER GARDENS IN BLACKPOOL

MORE INFO AND TICKETS AT REBELLIONFESTIVALS.COM

Feminist DIY collective LOUD WOMEN is back for LOUD WOMEN Sunday at Rebellion Festival 2025, taking over the Introducing Stage for a full day of feminist punk, riot grrrl, grunge, and genre-busting brilliance from the most vital female and non-binary-powered bands around.

This year’s lineup smashes together ferocious punk-rockers, indie rule-breakers, political agitators, and future icons — all championed by LOUD WOMEN, the global movement dedicated to getting more women and non-binary musicians on more stages and turning the volume all the way up.

LOUD WOMEN founder Cassie Fox said:
“LOUD WOMEN Sunday at Rebellion is one of my absolute highlights of the year — bringing our scene’s most exciting new artists to the UK’s biggest punk festival. This year’s lineup is bursting with rage, energy and creativity, with bands from across the UK and as far afield as Mexico joining us to make sure the future of punk is LOUD, proud, and unapologetically feminist.”

On the lineup selection, Fox added:
“Every band on this bill has that spark — the sound, the attitude, the DIY spirit — that makes them feel like part of the LOUD WOMEN family. From BEX’s hard-hitting feminist punk anthems, to Las Fokin Biches’ radical Mexican riot, to teenagers WENCH!, who I saw at a LOUD WOMEN gig at the Hope & Anchor and instantly knew they needed to be on this stage. This is what the future of punk looks like — and it’s absolutely glorious.”

Rebellion booker Jonny “Wah Wah” Taylor said:
“Having LOUD WOMEN back for a full day on the Introducing Stage is an absolute no-brainer. It’s always one of the most exciting, talked-about days of the festival — this is where people discover their new favourite band. LOUD WOMEN bring something fresh, vital and rebellious to Rebellion, and we can’t wait to see what this year’s lineup delivers.”

LOUD WOMEN takes over the Rebellion Introducing Stage on Sunday 10th August 2025, at Blackpool Winter Gardens. Weekend and day tickets available at:
https://www.rebellionfestivals.com

Full lineup for LOUD WOMEN Sunday at RIS 2025:

BEX
A punk-rocker who wants the music to speak again — BEX specialises in hard-hitting riffs, feminist lyrics and cutting-edge videos.

Goo
With fuzzy bright sounds and fast-paced guitars, this indie-punk band from Keighley, West Yorkshire brings early UK punk energy into a fresh, modern sound.

Anarchistwood
A punk band like no other — theatrical, political, and unafraid to throw costumes, face paint and anti-arms-trade rage into the mix.

Quick Romance
What happens when The Rezillos’ bassline crashes into X-Ray Spex’s vocals, with The Shangri-Las throwing confetti? That’s Quick Romance — real mean teens with killer tunes.

The Twistettes
Sisters Jo and Nicky Darc make up The Twistettes, bringing a dirty, twisted bass sound, a hit of swinging flare, and thumping driving drums. Punk, art-rock, riot grrrl, real-deal indie with a touch of psychobilly.

50 Foot Woman
Limerick’s finest punks, blending anarcho and skate punk with a message of PMA and self-expression.

Bridget.
The 22-year-old grunge powerhouse shaking up BBC Radio 1, Glastonbury and Bloodstock with her raw vocals and blistering punk tracks.

COWZ
Brighton-based queer alt-pop duo making “girl’s girl music with violent, political undertones”, blending punk, pop and electronics into something entirely their own.

Blagged
Melodic punk rock from Manchester, led by passionate female vocals and dripping with unapologetic energy. Come get Blagged!

WENCH!
Hull’s riot grrrl power trio, fusing punk, alt-rock and pop into a high-energy blast of female rage.

Las Fokin Biches
Feminist punk rock from Mexico, raising a global voice against gender violence and femicide. Fierce, provocative and absolutely essential.

About LOUD WOMEN:
 Founded in 2015 by Cassie Fox, the not-for-profit organisation is based in London with chapters in the US, Canada, Ireland, Spain and Australia. LOUD WOMEN’s mission: to put more women on more stages, and turn up the volume. LOUD WOMEN’s activities include the annual LOUD WOMEN Fest in London, regular gigs across the UK, a daily music blog run by 100+ contributors, a weekly radio show, and record releases through LOUD WOMEN Records.

Cassie Fox is a musician (bass Doris in London band I, Doris) and a lecturer at BIMM London.

Assets:
Artist photos available on request. Links:
 Rebellion Festival website/tickets
 LOUD WOMEN website
 Facebook
 Instagram
 Twitter

Episode 61 – the Podcast Goodbye David Johansen

Episode 61 – the Podcast Goodbye David Johansen

Theres only one place this week’s episode could start and that’s paying tribute to the legend that was David Johansen. In tribute, we indulge ourselves with ‘Some Hearts’ he recorded for the Johnny Thunders tribute album followed by ‘Showdown’ from the Dolls second album then ‘Funky But Chic’ from Davids Solo outing that the Dolls recorded a version of on their final album. But before we bow out we play ‘Coz I Said So’ from the second incarnation of the Dolls and the album of the same name. Rest In Peace David.

On a brighter note this week’s episode we have a tonne of new songs starting with some garage rock with plenty of bubblegum power pop courtesy of The Peawees and their new single ‘Don’t Look Back’. The band travel to the US for some dates in April to knock out plenty of tracks off their Spaghetty Town Records Album.

If one Spaghetty town artist isn’t enough then get ready because the Ravagers have a new LP on the way as well as a mega European Tour so it seems only right that we bring you their new single ‘Right To Kill’ before the New Record “On the Loose” is out on April 5th.

Hold onto your blowse ladies and Gentlemen because we follow that up with the new song from Crymwav ‘Scene Of The Crime’. The Band heads across the pond to play a show in ole London Town.

More new songs next – firstly it’s The Vapors with the opening track from their brand new album ‘Wasp In A Jar’ the track is entitled ‘Hit The Ground Running’ after a 35-year hiatus, the band are back and sounding fantastic I’m sure you’ll agree. Hot on the heels is ‘No Homo’ courtesy of Lambrini Girls from their debut album ‘Who Let The Dogs Out’.

Warrior Soul and ‘Pigs’ gets an airing due to the current political climate and the fact the Orange Potus is never out of the news at the moment and Korey isn’t afraid of speaking his mind so ‘Pigs’ from ‘Destroy The War Machine’ seems apt. Watching video footage of Jesse Malin going through his rehab was heartwarming and great to see. It made me crack open the D Generation vault so a demo version of ‘Sweet Talker’ seems like a good idea at this point. What a band they were/are.

Dead Boys guitar slinger Cheetah Chrome once did a solo album called ‘Solo’ and on it he recorded a track called ‘East Side Story’ with special guest was Sylvain Sylvain so this was a great time to play it.

Real Sickies have new music available ‘Should Have Seen It Coming’ from their new LP ‘Under A Plastic Bag’ – a RPM Online debut for these Canadian punks and a welcome track to play. The album is coming out on Stomp Records. More new music next in the shape of Human Toys outta Paris France. If you’re quick you can grab the track and the album it comes from off of their Bandcamp page Here.

One of the show’s favourite bands has to be the awesome shrinking violets the Dwarves who bring ‘Astroboy’ to the party and a review is incoming as they release a classic live-in-the-studio LP for RSD next month ‘Blood Guts And Pussy’ was the era in question. Awesome – short but oh so sweet.

A quick turnaround of The Strains with the A side of their new single ‘Running The Lines’ I do believe they are currently on tour with Handsome Dick Manitoba. Another RPM debut is this classic from US Bombs ‘We Are The Problem’ followed by the last banger The Clash recorded ‘Know Your Rights’ which seems like a timeless track to air in 2025.

The DeRellas are back and their new LP is almost upon us. WE aired the new single a few weeks ago and have since heard the finished album so now seems like a great time to play the title track ‘Trust Me This Is Gonna Hurt’. out Friday 28 March 2025! have you ordered your copy? hit that link.

The penultimate track this week is from a live download courtesy of Catbite and Laura Jane Grace covering the awesome Operation Ivy and the classic ‘Sound System’ a secret Riot Fest Afterparty at The Empty Bottle in Chicago, IL. Available via the hyperlink from Bandcamp it’s now available for pay-what-you-can with 100% of the proceeds going to help those affected by the 2025 Los Angeles Wildfires. The money will be split 50/50 between the following two organizations:

www.sweetrelief.org/naturaldisasterfund.html and bestfriends.org/emergency-response/los-angeles-wildfires#:~:text=Make%20a%20gift%20to%20Best,in%20the%20Los%20Angeles%20area

The final track this week is another cover and pretty much putting a full stop on this week’s opening artist David Johansen and the interesting cover from Sonic Youth of the New York Dolls Classic ‘Personality Crisis’ one of the most covered songs ever after we played the version from Teenage Fanclub recently this seems fitting this week who knows maybe next week we’ll crack open the Joan Jett version of the song. Rest In Peace David and thanks for the music. Be kind to each other and play nice catch you next week fo more rock and roll. Keep it RPM Online.

Flaco Rodriguez – ‘Ultimamente Solo Hablo de Ti’ (Self-Released)

Flaco Rodriguez – ‘Ultimamente Solo Hablo de Ti’ (Self-Released)

YouTube rabbit holes pay dividends again. One night I received a notification that Camila Fernandez had released a new song and decided to see what else I might find. One of the discoveries was the song ‘Hey Marina’ (more on it later) by Flaco Rodriguez and Querida Margot (another highly recommended band) which I listened to probably ten times that night. I then wanted to see what else each of these bands had out there on YouTube. This self-released album by Flaco Rodriguez would appear after maybe a month with a collection of previously released and new songs. While it is not our usual music here (if we have a usual type of music here), I think there are lots of elements here that can appeal to fans of Jesse Malin’s solo work, Johnny Thunder’s acoustic albums, and just high-quality music in general. I don’t have a lot of details about the band I can share other than they are from Spain, but let’s dig into this recommended album.

The lead track ‘Todos Nos Rodea’ is an acoustic soft rocker that includes both sung and spoken word vocals. The song provides a nice opening to an album filled with some diverse sounds. The bluesy groove of ‘Soy un Rodriguez’ increases the tempo a little bit and features some tasteful guitar work, female backing vocals, and a nice catchy hook. Up next is one of my favourites from the album, ‘Ciudades, Garitos, Altares’ is a dynamite acoustic number with co-lead vocals by the delightful Monica Morado. The harmony and melody in the vocals work perfectly together. Again, I think the song could have snuck onto a Thunders album as an all-acoustic number. It provides a great build in the album as it probably ranks in my top three songs on the album.

Coming back to ‘Hey Marina’ now, the song takes on more of a rock ‘n’ roll feel that brings to mind the likes of the Rolling Stones, a catchy midtempo Tyla song, or again a Thunders song. It has a build in the music and turns into a glass in the air, put your arm around a person beside you, and all sing along quality. Querida Margot brings their rock influences to the forefront. The horns add an even more festive feel to the song. Wrapping up the first half of the album, ‘El Parque’ returns the album to an acoustic feel that features some nice subtle percussion. It’s easy to see someone sitting on a porch or out by a campfire singing this one.

The second half of the album begins with ‘Perdon por Anticipado’ where the band spends the first half of its under three-minute length as another acoustic number before it gets a shot of rock and swagger and then mellows back out for the close. ‘Que No Hay Que Trabajar’ could slip into a spaghetti western where we see the horses racing across a tumbleweed filled mesa with the slowed down spoken word parts being flashback scenes. ‘Mientra Tu Estes Aqui’ is a slow acoustic Spanish ballad that fits nicely within the album. The trumpet works perfectly in the mix.

‘Donde Esta el Teatro?’ gets us close to the finale with a great shuffle and catchy chorus. Diego Rodriguez’ vocals across the album work great with the different songs across the album with this one’s genuineness and sincerity being no exception. Closing the album is my 2nd favourite on the album. ‘Adios, Tomas’ would not be out of place on a Roger Clyne and the Peacemakers or Refreshments album. The harmonica adds a great element to a song packed with a chorus crafted from catchy goodness. As in a few of the other songs, there are some spoken words in the song as well. These are really utilized in a similar manner to what Hanoi Rocks did on the ‘Two Steps from the Move’ album where the songs would feel incomplete without them. At well over five minutes, it also provides an epic finish to an album that only reaches just over 35 minutes.

For those looking to break up their normal listening, I recommend giving this one a chance. My Spanish is not great, so I continue to dig deeper into the lyrics and try to remember all of the Spanish I have learned over the years. ‘Hey Marina’ served as the perfect first song for me to hear because of its rock feel and singalong chorus. I hope there is eventually a video for ‘Adios, Tomas’ as it deserves a chance in the spotlight. This album keeps staying in my listening rotation. While you are checking this one out, I recommend giving the new single and debut album by Querida Margot a spin as well.

Ultimamente Solo Hablo de Ti’ is available now.

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Author: Gerald Stansbury  

Brian James (18 February 1955 – 6 March 2025)

Brian James (18 February 1955 – 6 March 2025)

To say I’m gutted would be an understatement. The music of The Damned and then subsequent bands and artists Brian played with have had a massive impact on my music over the decades from the first time that Damned Damned Damned was passed over the back wall of my house upon its release to listen to from a kind neighbour who thought I was ready for a lifetime of music for pleasure and boy was he right. In fact, I still have the chewed BASF cassette on which it was recorded (I could never bring myself to throw it away). I was hooked, when Brian left the Damned I was shocked as a young lad could be at the time (remember this is pre-interweb and all things digital) it might have been weeks when I read it in Sounds or NME. Brian and I had moved on I guess but years later I would hear his playing on the Lords Of The New Church and we were once again reunited in music and this time I was older and (maybe) wiser. I made scrapbooks of the clippings and followed his career and kept hoping for a Damned reunion so I could get to see that original line up but until then the Lords would do very nicely thank you very much.

I once tricked my then girlfriend (now Wife) into attending the Lords show in the Astoria to see Brian at work not knowing it was the infamous night when Stiv sacked the band again I had to find out the following week in the printed press again I was gutted but hey maybe it was a sign and the original Damned would do their thing.

Photo by ITV/Shutterstock (826741qm)

Fast forward a few years and I would get my wish but I was much older then and appreciated many versions of the Damned and their music and the guys in the band. when CDs were a thing I got my first Discman just so I could buy Brian’s first solo album an album that I loved for its rawness and his mesmeric style of recording his guitar as loudly as possible as he weaved his magic through the speakers. Be it as a solo artist or in a band of brothers like when he teamed up with Wayne Kramer on Racketeers or was in the Lords I always kept coming back for more. I loved the mystery that still surrounded the guy, unassuming even when he turned up to play in a pub in the South Wales Valleys he got changed in the pool room and seemed quite happy to blend in.

I always wanted to interview him but kept finding a reason to chicken out because I was properly star struck which is daft really because I knew he’d possibly be my favourite interview and I’d happily admit to fanboying on his catalogue of work. Having only just found out of his passing and I can’t imagine what his wife and son are feeling now as just a fan I’m gutted I won’t be able to see him play loudly again as I loved the Damned reformed shows of a few years ago and it looked like they finally made some kind of peace together which was great to see. Brian still had the chops and alongside the Brian and Rat shows with Texas Terri Bomb or the Lords Of The New Church I always loved hearing his music be it full-on garage punk rock n roll or the Acoustic mellow songs he did with Mark Taylor.

Brian James was a pioneer. Undisputable fact. He was a trailblazer and one of the coolest guitar slingers to have ever walked Gods Green Earth. He played with Iggy He made some awesome albums with Stiv not many had a career as amazing as he did and his sound will live on after all of us have joined him into the next life. I’m sure there will be people who knew him well and worked with him who will write far better obituaries about the legend than I could ever muster but until then, Rest In Peace Brian James You Absolute legend.

The Huntingtons – ‘Muerto, Carcel, O Rocanrol! Renacido!’ (Burnt Toast Vinyl)

The Huntingtons – ‘Muerto, Carcel, O Rocanrol! Renacido!’ (Burnt Toast Vinyl)

The Huntingtons, from Maryland, have been around for over three decades now but perhaps a little bit of history is needed as they have never really broken through to the mainstream. My first listen to them would have come back around 1997 with their ‘Fun and Games’ album. At that point, the main influence would have been the likes of the Queers or Screeching Weasel. One of the songs that grabbed me was a cover of the Ritchie Valens hit ‘Come On, Let’s Go’ which kept me coming back to the album and songs like ‘Alison’s the Bomb’ and ‘Losing Penny’ became band staples. The band would then quickly morph into a heavily influenced Ramones style band that has stayed with them over the years. In that time, they have released Ramones cover albums and numerous studio albums that have ranged from good to excellent. The band signed with Tooth and Nail Records early in their career, which unfortunately isolated them a bit from the mainstream, because the label was associated mostly with Christian bands. There has never been any gospel flavor to the band though, and they will say they are not a Christian band. Tooth and Nail did have a sizable reach for an independent label and worked with the band for many years.

About 25 years ago, the band released two full-length albums close together with the ’Plastic Surgery’ album including one of my favourite songs by them ‘Heartbreak at the Hardy Holly.’ The other ‘Get Lost’ contained another long-time favourite in ‘I’m Not Going Downtown.’ These excellent albums could have been future Ramones albums after ‘Adios Amigos’ and received a ton of play in my CD player. The band has continued to release albums over the years, but the reality of day jobs and responsibilities has reduced their output and the number of shows they play. Some things have not changed though including songs set in the world of the ‘Back to the Future’ movies that are extremely catchy. Back in 2020, the band released ‘Muerto, Carcel, O Rocanrol!’ for the first time. The band had written a bunch of excellent songs and nailed them in the studio. Unfortunately, the mix on the album just didn’t work well. It was an album that I liked, but it just felt off sonically. The band played fewer and fewer songs from it and realized it needed a remix after releasing an EP that sounded significantly better. Flash forward to today, the band has released the ‘reborn’ version which has greatly benefitted the album and finds me now playing it on repeat.    

The band holds tight to its Ramones stylings with Mikey still channeling Joey’s spirit. The first song ‘Too Old to Care’ kicks the album into gear with a sticky chorus that like many of their songs over the years includes some ‘woo ooh yeahs’ in the chorus. The band provide a nice nod to Iron Maiden in the CJ styled ‘The Slammer.’ The album really shines in this new lease on life. ‘Say Hi to Your Mom for Me’ provides another song for ‘Back to the Future’ in a stomper that lasts just over a minute and reminds me of their old song ‘Dies Saugt.’ ‘Be With You’ delivers a killer chorus using very few words but delivers them cleverly and catchily. The guitar work by Cliffy and Jonny hits the spot here and across the whole record.

The band has stretched out a bit as well with ‘Innocent’ stretching out to almost 4 minutes with an unexpected bridge that slows the song down from its mid-tempo beat and then returns to full strength in a way that makes the song more powerful in its use of dynamics. ‘Not Penny’s Boat’ delivers the goods and the unexpected bonus acoustic version works well too. The words in the chorus won’t all connect with you at once, but they will in time as the main version is a favourite among favorites here.

Lyrically, the band cover many facets of life. ‘Things Are Gonna Get Better’ provides a shot of optimism and hope in the dark times in life. As my Dad is struggling, it feels like the band is singing to me. ‘Liar’ provides another great hook in the chorus while addressing the deceitful people in our lives. Old album closer ‘I Don’t Wanna Die Alone’ provides a slower anthem that feels a bit like the Ramones ‘I Wanna Live’ and addresses something most of us have probably felt at some point in our lives. Mikey (bass) and Chris (drums) really create a great groove in the song.

I didn’t touch on all the songs, but there are no weak spots here now. This reborn version of the album has really helped save these songs from simply fading into the band’s catalogue as an afterthought. The added cover of ‘The Breakup’ provides another nice bonus. If you have never checked out the band, this isn’t a bad starting spot. Their run of albums from ‘High School Rock’ through ‘Songs in the Key of You’ would be where I would go next, but that is probably just personal taste for me as the recent live album ‘Ciao Italia! Live at Punk Rock Raduno 5’ is also highly recommended. This album? Revitalized, Reborn, and Recommended Listening!

‘Muerto, Carcel, O Rocanrol! Renacido!’ is available now.

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Author: Gerald Stansbury

The Vapors – ‘Wasp In A Jar’ (Red Chuck Records)

The Vapors – ‘Wasp In A Jar’ (Red Chuck Records)

“Life, you just can’t odds it, can you?”, as a certain fictional barman of Brentford was fond of saying (hello, Robert Rankin). So, here in 2025, we welcome the fourth studio album by The Vapors. Yes, you heard that right. 2020’s ‘Together’ saw a record-breaking 39 years between albums, and perhaps it passed you by due to its release coinciding with the pandemic. Which is a shame, because it’s a belter.

‘Wasp In A Jar’ is even better. If you loved the debut album, the sound is immediately recognisable, not just due to Dave Fenton’s vocals, but also the subtle melodies that get under your skin after the first play. So, we have 14 new tunes to revel in, starting with ‘Hit The Ground Running’, which would sit nicely on the debut. Let’s face it, no one wants The Vapors to change their style. Fenton’s voice hasn’t changed at all, which is a joy to hear, and it certainly sounds like a single.

‘The Human Race’ follows suit, you feel like you already know the chorus, and ‘Forever And Ever’ proves this wasn’t a fluke. A spiky love song, “You’re my porcupine, always be my valentine, you’re my wasp in a jar…”. ‘Miss You Girl’ hooks you from the opening bass line, and the chorus is as simple as you could get away with, yet it’s perfect. What can I say? This album is as welcome as finding a forgotten twenty-pound note in your winter coat and much less likely. Yet, here we are.

‘Decompression’ adds a bit more clout, riff-wise, melded to another memorable chorus, where the guitars chime. ‘Carry On’ has all the hallmarks of classic Vapors, that lovely, clipped rhythm guitar, before it opens up, a song of hope. ‘Nonstop Radio’ deserves radio play, if only. I’m sure Uncle Dom will find space for a couple of tracks on the righteous RPM podcast…

‘Nothing Can Stop Us Now’ is their “us against the world” song, and ‘Look Away Now’ is perhaps the most beautiful song here, delicately yearning. I don’t know how long it took them to write these songs, but they’ve hit a purple patch, whether it’s ‘Proud’ or ‘It Gets Better’. This album was crowdfunded, and it’s clear that the band have made every effort to pay back their fans with quality tunes and modern production. If you’re already a fan, whatever your age, get your ears around this. It’s a gem.

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Author: Martin Chamarette

RPM Online -The Podcast -Episode 60 – The gruesome twosome

RPM Online -The Podcast -Episode 60 – The gruesome twosome

It’s only Rock n Roll but We like it. Another day another episode of the RPM Online Podcast with another dozen and some of the finest alternative rock n roll available to own. This week is no exception as we endeavour to bring you the finest new old borrowed and blue tunes available so why not start with an absolute banger courtesy of Los Pepes and a track off their brand new album ‘Out Of The Void’ which will be out in April.

Hot on the heels is The Hell with a brand new track off their five-track EP this lovely ditty is ‘Circle The Drain’ available to the finest record label in the UK Drunken Sailor Records who are unrivaled in releasing excellent music on a consistent basis.

Out of Richmond Virginia Dead Billionaires are up next with their melting pot of alternative rock and the track ‘Curb’ of the wonderfully named ‘Disaster Preparedness Colouring Book’. Hot on the tail is some punk rock from The Squirts ‘Barbed Wire’ from ‘Men and Their Masters’. Staying with some classic punk jump on The Extraverts and ‘Marilyn Monroes Eyes’ Snotty stuff from their ‘Supple’ LP the first band we’ve featured from the superbly named Saskatchewan.

How about two legends teaming up for some motherfuckin Rock n Roll? Frank Meyer and Eddie Spaghetti with a track off their collaborative LP that went under the radar but if you love The Strretwalkin Cheetahs and Supersuckers then this is a no-brainer.

It’s the first of two tracks from these lifers on the show today because we like to bring you the finest music we’re currently playing and this is on heavy rotation currently so get on it.

Hitting the shores of Shit Island soon is the finest double bill anywhere as the Descendents and Circle Jerks give us a one-two. with a classic from ‘Milo goes To Collage’ with ‘I’m Not A Loser’ and followed by Circle Jerks from their oddities and rarities album ‘I Wanna Destroy’.

As we like to connect the dots of awesome Rock n Roll this week we bring you The Mattless Boys with ‘ It Only Hurts When I Cry’ followed by Black Eyed Sons and the title track from their debut album ‘Cowboys In Pinstripe Suits’ featuring Joe Elliott from that there Def Leppard. Then rounding off the trio is a classic from Mott The Hoople and the single edit of ‘Golden Age Of Rock and Roll’. ‘Dirty Laundry ft Honest John Plain and Ian Hunter along with Darrell Bath. Joe Elliott sang on Ian Hunter’s last pair of solo albums and guests on Black Eyed Sons.

Another week another track from down under and Split System and their new single is a particular favourite for us so here’s the other track on the single.

Billy Idol is back with a new album and single so with some spit and polish Young William is here with his new single off the album ‘Still Dancing’. The album ‘Dream into It’ will be out on April 25th. it features guest slots from the likes of Joan Jett and Avril Lavine.

Another Australian band and debut for us is The States with the track ‘Gimme Joy’ their first single on Legless Records. Melbourne Australia is certainly a hot ed of rock n roll and long may it continue.

Cast your minds way back in time when Punk exploded there were many forms of expression from the Damned and The Clash to America and Australia it was far-reaching and style-wise it didn’t have boundaries and that’s what it was all about which is why artists like Patrik Fitzgerald was able to flourish and his most popular track would probably be ‘Safety Pin Through My Heart’ so now seems like a good time to take a left turn and air some anti-folk which was released on Cherry Red Records a few years ago as part of a double album compilation.

Another throwback would have to be from The Accelerators who offer up ‘Moving Fast; from their collected recordings 77-79. Back for another go is a track by Meyer and Spaghetti this time from the ‘Partners In Crime’ EP which features tracks that didn’t make the cut of their LP but its too good to miss out. simply superb.

Prophets Of Addiction get aired next with a track off their new LP ‘Face The Music’, ‘Walk The World’ is the latest offering from the glam punks.

As we head into the home straight we hit you with a one, two firstly from No Spoilers with the track ‘Ghosting’ from their LP. Yet more punk rock from Italy via the excellent Label ‘Take The City’ from Madrid Spain.

then if that’s not enough how about a classic track with a twist courtesy of the mighty Motorhead. ‘Ace Of Spades’ is their most famous track but how about hearing one of the early versions they laid down before capturing the classic take. Available first on the RSD vinyl of ‘Remorse No’ LP which has now been pressed on CD.

Finally bringing Episode 60 to a magnificent climax we play ‘Be A Sport’ by Split Dogs off their brand new LP ‘Here To Destroy’ easily one of the albums of the year and it’s barely March. Exceptional stuff I’m sure you’ll agree. With only nine tracks it’s a lean Rock n Roll machine with no filler just top-notch punk rock n roll.

If you enjoy the tunes we play give us a share and a follow it’s much appreciated and helps spread the word further and it doesn’t cost you anything either. Keep the revolutions spinning and keep it RPM Online. Diolch.