Wonk Unit/The Pleasures/System Reset – Le Pub, Newport – 5th November 2023

Wonk Unit/The Pleasures/System Reset – Le Pub, Newport – 5<sup>th</sup> November 2023

It might be Bonfire night but the only fireworks I’m interested in seeing tonight are those being generated by this stellar three band bill. It’s a line-up that has more than a hint of Slugfest about it too seeing as all the bands have shared the floor/stages at the (now thankfully, once again) annual event. There’s also more than a whiff of the UK’s number one free festival within the crowd tonight too with the X15 bus seemingly standing room only to ensure that Blaenau Gwent is very well represented early doors. And who can blame them for picking up a rover ticket?

Fresh from recent support slots with the likes of Discharge, Raw Brigade and a whole host of other bands, System Reset have certainly come a long way in there still relatively short time together (as a five piece) with their back catalogue of songs maturing with them. Songs like ‘Anxiety’, ‘Fail Safe’ (my fave song by the band) and ‘Big Business’ all sound huge played through Le Pub’s impressive sound system, and there’s an immediate smile on my face when they kick in with the “woah oh” gang backing vocals and an even bigger one when there’s a nod to James Williamson’s time with The Stooges creeping into the riffage at one point too. System Reset’s soon to be released new single ‘Gas Light’ is a cracker, which alongside a handful of additional live shows brings to a close a very impressive 2023 for the melodic punk rockers. A slot at Rebellion 2024 awaits methinks.

The Pleasures are not as you might first expect, being an avid reader of RPM, the German glam rockers of the same name. Nah, this four piece are from the Gwent valleys and are a world away from anything even remotely glamourous. These four lads hail from one of the most deprived areas in south Wales and as you might expect have the anger and attitude by the bucketload that comes with such a dubious claim to fame. There’s also something that I cannot quite put my finger on about this gang, something that I last felt when I witnessed IDLES open a three band bill in Bristol’s Exchange just a few years back and before that when The Guns first broke on the south Wales scene. Not that they necessarily sound anything like either of the bands you understand, it’s just they have that special ingredient some band’s simply don’t have… charisma.

Singer Caethan Tucker is literally all over Le Pub’s stage and dance floor, he’s also shirtless and dripping sweat after just one song, such is the intensity of the band’s performance, and then when it comes to songs, popping up mid-set they have this monster of a tune called ‘Grandfather’s Bones’ complete with a mantra of ‘Don’t bite the hand that feeds’ that literally sounds like it’s ready made for when the boys get their chance to wow a Glastonbury/Reading type of crowd. They have the same kind of breakthrough potential that I witnessed in HotWax when they played just a few yards up the road in McCanns cellar bar and are now touring enormodomes in the US with Royal Blood.

Go give the band’s single ‘Lies’ a listen on YouTube (with coincidently the video being directed by Alex from the aforementioned Guns) and turn the fucker up loud. Oh, and before I forget, any band that can cover the mighty LCD Soundsystem and make the song (‘Daft Punk Is Playing At My House’ in case you are wondering) sound like their own tune, really does deserve your attention.  “Woo!”

Croydon’s Wonk Unit have always had a reputation for having great support bands on the bill with them, it’s almost like their singer Alex welcomes the challenge this poses his band, but when it comes to the current six piece band he has carefully assembled he’s more than capable of batting off any young shavers looking to steal the band’s crown as undisputed champions of the UK DIY punk rock scene.

I’ve seriously never heard Wonk Unit sounding as essential as they do here tonight, be it the classics like ‘Guts’, ‘Go Easy’ or ‘Lewisham’ that first introduced me to the band, or the tunes that immediately followed these like ‘Je M’appelle Alex’, ‘Awful Jeans’ and ‘Day Job Wanker’, tonight’s set has more bangers than the rain-soaked pyrotechnic display just over the river at Rodney Parade.

I also get to hear my first Christmas song of the year tonight, but when it comes all wrapped up in the shape of ‘Christmas In A Crackhouse’ you certainly won’t hear any complaints from myself or anyone else packed in down the front.

As always with a Wonk Unit their show is as much about Alex’s between song chats and tonight he’s on tip top form, sharing the hilarious back stories regarding tunes such as ‘She Cut Her Finger’ and ‘Horses’ whilst also displaying his more sensitive and private side ahead of new tune ‘Overwhelming’ (the first of two played) a song that keyboardist Vezzy insists could even have chart potential.

Of course, Wonk Unit live are anything but sensitive and the chaos that ensures once (Johnny) ‘Rambo’ enters Le Pub for the band’s finale is all you’ll ever need in your camouflage jacket pocket if you ever had to give evidence of this fact in a court of law.

I’ve said it many times before, but I’ll say it again, Wonk Unit really are something special, there’s no one else quite like them out there, and in fact they fast becoming something of a national treasure when it comes to DIY punk rock bands. They are no heritage band though, the new songs really sounded great tonight, and the current, settled, line up of Alex and bassist Pwoison, alongside Vezzy, drummer Max and guitarists AJ and Ryan really look like they are relishing every second of being in a band together.

Don’t forget to honk if you Wonk.

HONK!

Author: Johnny Hayward

Triumph Of Death – ‘Resurrection Of The Flesh’ (BMG)

Triumph Of Death – ‘Resurrection Of The Flesh’ (BMG)

I loved the rawness of the original Hellhammer recordings and for a lad in his teens it was exactly what I wanted to be listening to mixed with all the punk I was hearing this band venom and Motorhead were the dog’s danglies. Dark, Dangerous, and most inviting to a young rebellious male that for sure.

Fast forward several decades and a return to those songs is something I was quite excited about. A little wiser (maybe) certainly a lot older and they’ve lost none of that raw, brutal charm that first drew me in. Having had a lifetime of music poured into my ears hearing ‘The Third OF The Storm’ rush through my speakers was a treat and in a live setting having that rush of energy and relentless brutality is still there which is amazing and a major achievement for Tom G Warrior. to be fair the production here is excellent and adds to that excitement and the old school feel is in full effect. Twelve songs in just a short of an hour is perfect. from ‘Reaper’ through the darkness that is ‘Horus Aggressor’ made the hairs (yes I’ve still got hair) stand up on the back of my neck as that double bass pedal bursts into life.

Having never seen Hellhammer I would be down the front of a Triumph Of Death live show in a black heartbeat. This live outing made me revisit my old tape of the first release as well as my Russian import of the complete demos and the comparing and contrasting of the new live recordings only makes right any of the production imperfections so for any metal heads out there unfamiliar with this band and the Hellhammer legacy need to stop doing whatever right now and get this on and get the corpse paint out for the mighty Triumph Of Death has finally delivered us a Hellhamme feast of power, and sheer raw Black Metal/ Punk crossover perfection. the foreboding darkness of the title track is immense and having this recording taken from three appearances through 2023 is a real treat captured forever in wax I urge you to get out there and pick up a copy pronto for your intense recreation of extreme metal at its very finest. Buy IT!

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Author: Dom Daley

Terrorvision/The Bar Stool Preachers – St. George’s Hall, Bradford – 3rd November 2023

Terrorvision/The Bar Stool Preachers – St. George’s Hall, Bradford – 3<sup>rd</sup> November 2023

Hands up who’s seen a bad, or even an average Terrorvision show over the years? No, I thought not. Bradford’s finest export don’t do average. Through the glorious Brit Rock years and their run of chart success in the 90’s, the lost 2000’s and the subsequent reformations, Terrorvision have always delivered high energy rock n’ roll shows and have a greatest hits set that many bands would die for. You may have forgotten that these quirky northern herberts were chart botherers at a time when the charts actually mattered. ‘Tequila’, ‘Celebrity Hit List’ and ‘Bad Actress’ were top 10 singles, and they weren’t even their strongest songs!

Celebrating 30 years as a band, Terrorvision play 3 shows in the run up to bonfire night. Billed as TV30, they play Nottingham Rock City, Camden Electric Ballroom and tonight, sandwiched between the two, a sold-out hometown show at the stunning surroundings of St George’s Hall in Bradford.

It’s pretty full already by the time Brighton noisenicks The Bar Stool Preachers hit the stage. Their high energy, socially aware ska punk anthems might seem a bit of a mismatch for a Terrorvison crowd but they go down surprisingly well. Promoting the well-received ‘Above The Static’ album, the six-piece band are a whirlwind of bouncing energy from the off. Frontman Tom McFaull has the ability to whip the crowd up into a frenzy, and the rest of the guys make the most of the space, bounding around like their lives depend on it.

It’s a short set and they don’t play any of the recent singles, which seems a bit odd. But with the likes of the ska infused ‘Choose My Friends’ and the anthemic ‘Flatlined’, they sure have enough tunes to excite the uninitiated. An extended ‘Bar Stool Preacher’ closes the set with audience participation, and The Bar Stool Preachers leave the stage with the satisfaction that they have certainly gained more than a few new fans tonight.

Terrorvision are dressed in black and pink as they take to the stage to thunderous applause. Whereas L.A. darlings Starcrawler pull off this look with the cool that only L.A. rock stars can, the Bradford rockers have a more casual approach, apart from frontman Tony Wright that is. Wearing a full-on pink suit, black shirt and trainers, he’s more Showaddywaddy than LA chic, and we wouldn’t want it any other way!

They open a 24 song greatest hits set with the sublime ‘Discotheque Wreck’ and the crowd go mental. A high energy performance from the off, the band are all over the stage, led of course by Tony’s animated antics and crowd interaction.

The sound and atmosphere in this venue is top notch and works to the band’s advantage. And of course they have the songs…loads of ‘em. You may have forgotten how many hits Terrorvision have in their repertoire. ‘How To Make Friends And Influence People’ spawned 5 top 30 singles in 1994 and they are all played tonight. ‘Alice What’s The Matter’ sounds amazing, it’s six songs into the set and the singer has the crowd in the palm of his hands.

Terrorvision are a 7-piece band these days. Tony’s sidekick Milly Evans has played keyboards full time for at least 15 years and the addition of Nick Hughes from The Middlenight Men on Trumpet and Liz Mitchell on saxophone makes for a full sound. But it’s Tony, bassist Leigh Marklew and guitarist Mark Yates who are the focal point all night. With leather trousers, and a waistcoat over a pink shirt, a Les Paul dangling from his knees, Mark Yates is still the most rock n’ roll member of Terrorvision, and he peels off those killer licks and riffs effortlessly, while pulling all the cool rock star poses.

The hits continue to flow. ‘Tequila’ may be cheesy, but you can’t deny the power of a catchy chorus and the drinking anthem probably keeps Tony stocked up on Kopperberg these days. The place erupts for the chorus, and it gives the reaction any fine drinking song should.

The highlights are plentiful and memorable. For me it would be a killer ‘My House’, the over-catchy ‘Celebrity Hit List’ and the ever cool ‘Josephine’, the Tarantino-esque guitars and killer chorus a sublime match for me.

Their turn of the century dance anthem ‘D’Ya Wanna Go Faster’ ends a 22-song set in fine style and the sweaty crowd get their money’s worth ten-fold. But the band have a few more aces up their collective sleeves. Following a rip-roaring punky rarity ‘This Drinking Will Kill Me’ there is only one song left to end a killer Terrorvision show…whales and dolphins! ‘Perseverance’ is one of those classic signature Terrorvision singles, and a song that has the ability to transcend and give a massive sense of euphoria, like all good songs should. What a way to end a set.

Tonight was a masterclass in how to perform a rock n’ roll show. With 30 years in the business Terrorvision are masters of entertainment and have the back catalogue to make lesser bands weep. Every time I see them live they deliver, when supporting larger acts, they sometimes come off the better band on the night. It’s just a shame they are not a full-time thing these days, but when they do tour, it’s nice to be reminded just how good they are and what a high energy rock show should all be about. A perfect celebration of one of the UK’s best bands. Same time next year, lads?

Author: Ben Hughes

Wonderful Pics courtesy of:Adrian Hextall

Johny & The Dead Girls – ‘Dirty Fuckin Rock ‘n’ Roll’ (Self Release)

Johny & The Dead Girls – ‘Dirty Fuckin Rock ‘n’ Roll’ (Self Release)

The clue is in the title. Johny gets a couple of chicks on board who wont answer him back, wont drink his rider, argue in the van steal his leather strides and get into fights with the local police,but, can knock out some dirty punk n roll fast n loud and look awesome in a wig.

Turn it up suckers this is no nonsense, loud n fast punk n roll. Its down n dirty and having learnt from the best it also includes a filthy rendition of ‘No Class’ which to be fai ris clearly the MO for this EP. Its back at the marquee on Wardour Street where McCoy n Thunders are hanging out by the cloakroom whist the Lords are tuning up. Clocking in at a thunderous one minute ‘Dancing With The Dead Girls’ is a call to arms and ast enough to get the heart racing and a longing for a time long gone but hell of alot of fun.

Don’t pause because the Lords dripping ‘Bad Intentions’ is a sliding solo to Hell and back as the tempo is like a hog guzzling petrol on the highway to hell with the FTW middle digit to the rest of the pack before buring out rather than fading away.

what a corker Johny hits paydirt with a sleazy slice of ‘No Class’ that Lemmy would certainly be proud of would tip his hat and rattle his jewelery at if he hears it. To be fair I’ve played it loud enough that he might just hear it with a fair wind into the next life. the energy on ‘The Buzz’ is fantasticand having the EP come out of covering ‘No Class’ is a gift from the Rock n Roll Gods and proof that music is plucked from the ether or gifted from the spirits who’ve passed on.

The energy keeps on going and the Dead Girls keep on giving as ‘Where The Action Is’ is a motoring cruise control riff a rama where it builds to the solo that’s on fire! then we’re back to that Lord’s inspired bass n drums breakdown that takes this sucker home.

Closing off the best piece of work mr Skullknuckles has done for a long time and if anyone has been paying attention that is an impressive catalogue behind him and this is the icing on the cake the cream of the crop if you like. ‘Dirty Fucking Rock n Roll’ is a slow-burning groove-infested rocker that does what it says on the tin. Now pop over to Bandcamp and fill yer boots. Stick it on the player and stick it in your ears its music for the soul and music for the connoisseur of Dirty Fuckin Rock n Roll. Now where can I get Silent Sonia’s phone number for my Mate Hotshot, he loves how she does her hair and paradiddles her snare and no doubt holds her liquor. Buy It

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Los Santos – ‘El Corazon’ (Los Santos Inc Records)

Los Santos – ‘El Corazon’ (Los Santos Inc Records)

Michael G Bayliss, Richard England, Alex Wonk, Peter Wilkinson, Andy Cox, Chris Musto, and Kate O’Brian are in Los Santos London and they play um rock n roll I guess, yes, simple as that this is something of a collaborative effort from some very talented musicians pulled together to make a varied record. ‘On The Strip (Vegas Baby)’ a sprightly riff-tastic rocker eases you in with a strong melody held in place by a thumping riff and rhythm section. The slightly muddy production sort of adds a vibrancy to the recordings. Whilst not rushed it gives the vibe of urgency and DIY feel to the tracks as the EP thumps into ‘Bourbon Street’ where the pop melody is slightly buried beneath the avalanche of punk urgency not too dissimilar to early Lemonheads take on punk rock.

‘Stoneface’ has a glimpse of The Ruts running through the middle of this scorching blast of punk rock. From the vibrant keith moon school of drumming from Alex Wonk its a blast for sure. ‘Fanclub (for Ronnie Spector)’ has a low budget echo going on as you’d imagine from the title this dreamy pop song has enough worn edges in its delivery to keep it fresh and the chorus and vocal melody is good making it the stand out track on this EP. Closing this ever so brief glimps into what can be achieved when some punk rockers get together to make music it only leaves a very good take on a Husker du classic ‘Sorry Somehow’ where the band thunder through a very satisfying version.

All in all a decent offering from Los Santos with some very good tunes knocked out in fine fashion and my beef with the production or mixing might just be what keeps it vibrant and alive, I’ll give my head a wobble and press play again. Go on dive in it’s only Rock n Roll kids just turn it up.

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Author: Dom Daley

The Mission/Theatre Of Hate – The Roundhouse, London 28/10/23

The Mission/Theatre Of Hate – The Roundhouse, London 28/10/23

I find myself in the exquisite surroundings of one of London’s finest concert halls, The Roundhouse in Camden Town for what is the first time in ages. For I’m about to catch the last night of The Mission’s Deja Vu World Tour. Whilst it seemed like forever ago when I went to the second warm-up show on the tour in Cardiff but that was only Wednesday, April 12th, 2022. Fast forward a year and I then caught a pretty special show in Barcelona, then in the summer it was a support slot with the Cult before rounding off (Boom Boom) in the Roundhouse for the finale. To be fair they were pretty damn good out of the traps on that opening night warm up but hell, the Roundhouse smashed all my expectations.

Sure Barcelona was hot a sweaty fun and the band had already been on the road for twelve months and the new boy Alex was well and truly in the groove but The Roundhouse they were absolutely on fire. Anyway, later. Firstly thanks to the London crosstown traffic and utterly shite weather we managed to miss Ist Ist which was a shame, but, walking into the already full Roundhouse just as Kirk Brandon and the band took to the stage for what was a fantastic no nonsense set of nine Theatre Of Hate songs plus the Spear Of Destiny ‘Grapes Of Wrath’ and this was the first TOH set I’d seen in years having previously caught Spear Of Destiny sets and Brandon Solo, or as part of Dead Men Walking many moons ago. The Saxophone worked well and as part of a post-punk setup up it was different songs like ‘Conquistador’ that went down a treat and Brandon looked and sounded in great shape which was also great to see.

Not much banter from Brandon it was a case of letting the music do the talking and get on with the job at hand so, ‘Incinerator’, ‘Westworld’, and ‘Propaganda’ were fine ways to sign off that evenings warm up. Excellent song delivered well, and a fine way to catch up with a unique talent that is Kirk Brandon now for the headliners.

The Mission, Its no secret and its fair to say I love the band from the first time I heard them burst onto the scene back in the 80s. They’ve been a constant throughout my youth and into adulthood, seeing the band dozens of times from way back in the day at Cardiffs New Ocean Club back before the debut album hit the shelves right up to this point and the final night of a pretty impressive and mammoth world crusade.

Making the most of it or just trying to draw in every last second I hope it’s not their swans song and there is more to come from the band who to be fair have sounded amazing and this night in the big smoke was an absolute triumph. To be fair I know they rehearse so many songs for the tour and then rotate them I’ve seen a pretty varied list of songs played and with the exception of ‘Naked And Savage’ the Roundhouse set was unbelievably good from the opening excitement of The Dam Buster Theme and into the epic ‘Beyond The Pale’ it was all systems go and the band were on fire. tight and road ready the miles had certainly paid off and Alex sounded so comfortable as it was no time for nostalgia or messing about it was pure business as the phenomenal ‘Serpent’s Kiss’ ripped through the PA as fresh as the first time I ever heard it. My mind was racing trying to take it all in and memories came flooding back as the band went through some big hits early doors it was ‘Crystal Ocean then ‘Butterfly On A Wheel’ before one of the newer tunes got a look in and for me, I’ve not been able to get the chorus of ‘Met-amor-Phosis’ out of my head. Sure I love the classics and will never tire of hearing ‘Garden Of Delight’ and ‘Stay With Me’ but equally the newer songs like this and ‘Swan Song ‘ hold similar status in my memories.

Ending the main set with a blustering big mother of a song ‘Deliverance’ delivered. It was time for a drink and then Wayne returned on his own for a quick bit of Sister’s banter and an impeccable ‘Wake’ before the band resumed their positions onstage for an epic one-two of ‘Blood Brothers’ and ‘Wastelands’, I found myself getting a little emotional saying it was moving too fast and can it go on longer but a glance at the watch said time wasn’t our friend and there was only room for one more, but we’d almost been here for two hours It had simply flown by which only left Wayne and Simon on stage for a stumble through ‘You’ll Never Walk Alone’ before leaving the stage briefly before an absolute monster version of ‘Tower Of Strength’ and a heaving mass of people must have all been thinking the same thing as the band took a final bow and left the stage right. Howling triumphant applause saw the band off it was the least they deserved after such a draining set of songs that were the sound of a band right on the top of their game and a band that could go toe to toe with anyone on this form, simply superb.

I do hope this isn’t the end, but merely yet another chapter for one of the best bands for several decades. Go home, take some time off, and recharge the batteries. look back fondly on an amazing tour where the band got better and better because to go out at this point would be a travesty, especially with significant anniversaries on the horizon. Besides, I want to try a German date next time. This was certainly a taste of God’s Own Medicine and one I will never tire of taking, I treasure these moments that’s for sure. Play on Wayne, Craig, Simon, and Alex that was a special end to some special memories. Nice one.

Author: Dom Daley

Singles Club – November fireworks!

Singles Club – November fireworks!

Lighting up the airwaves around at RPM HQ is this tasty bunch of foot stompers. Check em out. A fine starting eleven if ever there was one. All Norman Hunter and Billy Bremner if you don’t mind.

Jonesy – ‘Doppelgangbangers’ (Heavy Medication Records) Heres a fulsome foursome packed with sleazy good times courtesy of Heavy Medication Records. From the ivory tinkling banger that opens this EP ‘(I Don’t Do) Blondes (No More)’ its a party anthem for those who couldn’t care about cancel culture and just love partying and good time rock n roll. then follow it up with a slide guitar driven rocker ‘(If Its Not Rock N Roll) Go TO Hell’ with a boot stomping DC meets Kiss meets a whole bunch of cowbell tub thumping rock n roll made for chuggin beers and picking your nails with a switchblade. ‘Gudbuy’ is Slade on speed with some added boogie just to reignite the party. ‘Furry White Fury’ is like the sleazy illegitimate bastard of every classic rock n roll tune with more cowbell and five mile wide smiles. Love this band and respect to Heavy Medication For taking this to market. What a whapping ten inches of hot throbbing dirty wax – Its a winner! 

Johny & The Dead Girls – ‘Bomber’ (Self Release) Oh boy hold onto your wigs kids Mr. Skullknuckles is here to show you how to do a cover as it should be done with his sleazy yet fabulously glamorous take on this Motorhead classic. No need to hide behind your fingers folks this is a proper doff of the cap to a classic. Bite, personality, and a lot of fun – lovin it! There is a new mini EP on the horizon and this was recorded at the same time however it’s an exclusive on the Bandcamp page so go fill yer boots.

Yobs – Fortune Teller (Fuzz Club Records) What a two minute blast of head fucking noise from Liverpools Yobs. Out of the rubble of the now-defunct Liverpool bands Weird Sex (Roadkill Records) and Ohmns, with a pair of live shows on the horizon at London, The Night Owl on Nov 24th and Nov 25 – Liverpool, @ Round The Corner. This one will shake off any hangover cobwebs you might have. Banger!

Dwarves – ‘Voodoo’ (Greedy Records) The last punk band has a new smokin album ready to be released this month and heres a sample of a track from it. Spooktacular song from a right thrashingly good Dwarves album there are another nineteen like this one coming down the barrel and people say punk is dead or theres nothing exciting around anymore but hey let me tell you this is still the dogs danglies and the Dwarves are still fuckin awesome.

Wytch Pycknyck – ‘Columbo No5’(Property Of The Lost Records) Hastings based psychedelic punks Wytch Pycknyk have been causing a stir lately with some incendury live performances. ‘Columbo No5’ is the first release on Property of the Lost with a Debut album out early ’24. It a howling hoot of a song with some wild and quite frankly reckless guitar riffage over that hypnotic beat. hit it up and give your head a good old bashing.

The Conscience Pilate – ‘Hope’ The final single from the superb Conscience Pilate fronted by the talented Neil Leyton. The B-side of “Hope” is TCP’s cover of “April Skies” by The Jesus and Mary Chain. Hope is Written by Neil Leyton and Edward Pond and is a genre defying slice of massive hook on the chorus and the atmosperic guitar twisting throughout the verse whilst the anchor is that thumping bass guitar. Single of the month fo rme this I keep returning to it over and over and its given me a real thirst for the full album when it drops. Great stuff.

Twitter: https://twitter.com/TCPyyz

Website: https://www.theconsciencepilate.com

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Rob Moss & Skin Tight Skin – ‘We Just Don’t Know’ (Bandcamp) Rob is back with new music and this time hes brought a familiar set of collabourators on this the first slice of DIY punk n roll with its fair share of Ramones tempo and rockin guitar breaks and gang vocals courtesy of Dave McEwan, Dwight Reid, Greg Lonesome, Mike Williamson, Steve Vincent, Todd Zimmer. Its a blast as you’d expect and theres more to come from Rob which we’re looking forward to. Hit him up its trashy its punky its fun besides its only Rock n Rol baby!

Autogramm – ‘Plastic Punx’ (Stomp Records/Beluga Records) Canadian and North American new wave gents release ‘Plastic Punx’ from their forthcoming album as it bristles with energy and a rampant tempo on a borrowed riff from SS Sputnic as it motors along with its infectious melody and tempo.

Leatherman – ‘Telephone’ (Legless Records) Melbourne Australia delivers again with this new 7″ single out on Legless Records. Muscular riff-n-roll with some punk rock attitude and an abundance of classic guitar licks Hell, there is even a cowbell in there so what not to like? The B side is a carefree rocker ‘Tryin’ 2 4get’ that’ll have you reaching for the studded wrist band to wear whilst you strap on the tennis racket for some mirror posing along to a great single.

Animal Shithouse – ‘CK’ (lockjaw Records) Synth punks with the best new name in punk circles Finding inspiration in the likes of Soft Play and Ladybird from their hometown, alongside alternative legends like Rage Against the Machine and the Sex Pistols, they mesh the old and the traditional and the innovative to deliver a swift sonic gut punch! Bosh ave it!

The Why Oh Whys – ‘Dead Or Alive’ (Beluga Records) Another new band on me but they’ve been doing this since 2017. Guitar driven pop songs with a tonne of energy its rock n roll baby and if its on Beluga it must be worth investigating right? right! ‘Dead Or Alive’ open up this EP with a strong melody that is just infectious. ‘If It Aint True’ is more of the same with a dreamy tempo and lovely crisp jangly guitar and back beat cruising right the way through. ‘Like YO uUsed To’ is an upbeat 60s inspired rocker plenty of britpop beatnik melody happening here and no doubt some nice cuban heels for good measure. Saving the best til last ‘I Saw Her Last Night’ is the pick of the bunch with a more spikey delivery and super col lucky strike no filter attitude pushign on through. Check it out its damn good.

The Hard Ons – ‘In Falls Everything’ (Golden Robot Records) Fresh from a successful tour of Europe, and Australian album launch tour, perennial favourites, Hard-Ons release their new single ‘In Falls Everything’. ‘In Falls Everything’ is the latest single from the acclaimed album ‘Ripper ‘23’ and its got a hefty pair of swinging dogs danglies with a huge rock solid thumping rhythm. Tim Rogers is front and centre and gives the band a new release of energy, Also contributing to songwriting, The difference is palpable, an absolute treat to the ears of fans old, new and indifferent. 

Cult Figures – ‘Rapid 40 Slideout (Gare Du Nord Records) What a great uptempo slice of post punk this is. Lifted from their new album this is a real banger bristling with energy. No fuckin about its just down to business and writing top tunes. dont beieve me? hit the video then nod your noggin and click the link you wont be dissappointed.

The Drowns – Just The Way She Goes (Pirates Press Records) The Drowns’ penchant for writing 50’s inspired rock with a punk attitude! It will be coming out November 24th ahead of the bands full length album.

The Drowns’ take on the classic rock ’n roll story of “boy-meets-girl, boy & girl go for a joyride in a classic muscle car,” with a steady backbeat that will get any listener moving! If this is a taste of whats to come on the album then bring it on its going to be top quality.

Billy Liar – ‘Crisis Actor’ (Pirates Press Records)

Billy Liar – ‘Crisis Actor’ (Pirates Press Records)

If anyone deserved a break due to their hard work, high standards, and passion it was or should I say is Billy Liar. Signing to Pirates Press is proof that hard work can and will pay off – with a determination and unwavering belief in what he does is his just deserts. Billy has been gaining well-deserved praise from high places such as Tim Armstrong and we’ve always seen the talent and great songs he’s written and on ‘Crisis Actor’ he’s indeed taken it to the next level from the tub-thumping chest beating opener ‘Oblivion’ through the organ swirling rampant beast that is ‘Baltimore’ Billy has the sound that can and should break through big time Stateside. Its no accident Pirates Press recognised that talent and have released this new record.

Billy’s songs detail some outstanding storytelling, where every lyric has you hanging on his every breath its like turning the pages of a great book you simply can’t put down and you’re wondering where it’s heading next. The energy of ‘Negroni’ is superb (With added Frank Turner). The sound is arena-filling and also a breath of fresh air if you were in say the Black Heart in Camden watching him rip through these songs on his acoustic guitar it would still sound huge.

‘Phantom Limb’ is thunderous but then again the energy bursting through the speakers from the likes of ‘Osterich’ it’s no surprise to hear mr Frank Turner join Billy on this LP because I’m sure Turner will be looking over his shoulder at Liar as he steams up on the inside track. ‘Starlight On Main’ is more of the same but the highlight is ‘Cheyne Stoking’ with its chest-beating brilliance with a broken-hearted melody sung with vim and vigor Billy is stepping up here.

But hold on its not all thunder and attack there are also softer songs for tough guys like the jarring ‘Don’t Trust Anyone’ that wakes from its harsh abrasive into into a heaving monster. This is one of the finest half hours I’ve heard all year and the hoe down that is ‘Hogmanay’ if The Pogues had written never mind the bollocks and turned up the guitars instead of whistles. Simply a stunning record and one that should propel Billy Liar to being a household name in punk rock circles. Be it leading a raucous band or standing in the spotlight with just his acoustic guitar Billy Liar has hit paydirt with ‘Crisis Actor’ Man I thought ‘Some Legacy’ was good but this is on another level. Buy It!

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Author: Dom Daley

CJ Wildheart – ‘SPLiT’(Self Release)

CJ Wildheart – ‘SPLiT’(Self Release)

You can’t keep a good man down, and the Duracell bunny of positivity that is CJ Wildheart is back with a new solo album to improve your life. After the fury and anger of 2020s ‘Siege’, this is a collection of killer tunes that, while often ferocious, maintain a link to the melodies he’s known for. And so it begins with ‘Kick Down The Walls’, the opening chord reminiscent of ‘Sitting At Home’ by the mighty Honeycrack, before launching into an anthemic chorus. “We’re ready for the fight…”, and he still has a knack with a tasty middle eight. It’s the little things that can transform a song into something special.

‘Butterfingers’ is just as infectious, whilst reminiscing of old days at the Marquee; “messing with our hair, getting ready for the night”. You can almost taste the Hard Rock Hairspray. “Are you ready, are you one of us?”, wrapped around a simple but insistent melody. Lovely.

‘Victoria’ has a great, upfront bass line, made for pogoing, while ‘All The Dough’ and ‘S.D.E’ riff it up in a similar fashion to RFTC, and a similar high quality. This doesn’t sound like an album made on a small budget, and Dave Draper has done a fantastic job throughout.

‘Bad Decision’ reminds me of the energy and riffs of Chris Catalyst, as I regularly spin his recent album. Another good guy, for sure. Having listened a few times now, it’s ‘Give The Dog A Bone’ that really sticks in my head immediately, the chorus is classic CJ, from The Jellys onwards, and you will be playing it on repeat.

‘Mr Angry’ is two minutes of focussed fury, and ‘All You Rude Boys’ tackles the lecherous idiots in clubs and bars; “you’ll never set that girl alight, cause she knows damn right that you talk too much and you’re full of shite”.

‘Shweinehund’ is almost heavy Goth, set to a nursery rhyme tune, an unexpected turn. I wonder if he’s heard Mr Catalyst’s ‘Robochrist’ stuff? ‘The Grass Is Greener’ ends on a positive note; “hope, it glimmers in the distant light….on my own, it tastes so good alone”. It certainly sounds like CJ is content with where he is right now. He’s delivered a corker of an album. It pays to be a good guy.

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Author: Martin Chamarette

Therapy? give me ‘Woe’ AI video

Therapy? give me ‘Woe’ AI video

TAKEN FROM THE CRITICALLY ACCLAIMED NEW ALBUM ‘HARD COLD FIRE’

The band kick off their tour this weekend with all dates and ticket details at the link Here

pic: Tom Hoad

As Therapy?’s fourth decade finally gets underway in earnest, sixteenth album ‘Hard Cold Fire’, written and pre-produced during an unprecedented time for music, is hefty, compact, and accessible, a distillation of everything that has made them what they are – hewn from County Antrim basalt, still possessed of their stoicism, but casting a renewed focus on catharsis and healing.

Working once more with renowned producer Chris Sheldon (Feeder, Biffy Clyro, Foo Fighters), a consistent good-luck charm for Therapy? dating back to 1994’s breakout album Troublegum, the band decamped to the newly opened Marshall Studios in Milton Keynes toward the end of 2021, working furiously to put the album down in its final form.

‘Hard Cold Fire’ will be released 5th May 2023 via Marshall Records. Be sure to catch Therapy? live on their in-store run this may. Tickets and more information can be found – pre-order limited edition bundles of ‘Hard Cold Fire’ HERE.

Be sure to catch the band’s explosive live show at one of the following dates:

TOUR DATES

* w/support from Gallus

NOVEMBER 2023
03 Galway, IE – Róisín Dubh*
04 Limerick, IE – Dolans Warehouse *
05 Cork, IE – Cyprus Avenue *

DECEMBER
01 Portsmouth, UK – Wedgewood Rooms
02 Sheffield, UK – O2 Academy 2
03 Northampton, UK – Roadmender
07 Bristol, UK – The Fleece
08 Manchester, UK – Academy 2
09 Sunderland, UK – Pop Recs
10 Glasgow, UK – King Tut’s
14 London, UK – Electric Ballroom
15 Bradford, UK – Nightrain
16 Birmingham, UK – O2 Institute2
17 Cardiff, UK – Globe

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