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Please send one copy of vinyl (preferred), CD, or cassette releases to MRR, PO Box 3852, Oakland, CA 94609, USA.
Maximum Rocknroll wants to review everything that comes out in the world of underground punk rock, hardcore, garage, post-punk, thrash, etc. No major labels or labels exclusively distributed by major-owned distributors, no reviews of test pressings or promo CDs without final artwork. We reserve the right to reject releases on the basis of content. Music without vocals or drums will not be considered. All music submitted for review must have been released (or reissued) within the last two years. Please include contact information and let us know where your band is from!
A remarkably distinctive record, combining the best elements of the VELVET UNDERGROUND, LOVE, and the LEGENDARY STARDUST COWBOY. With these raunchy points of reference, this can only be described as “psycho-delic.” Wow!
My favorite release of 1981, and that’s saying a lot given the quality of the competition. The FARTZ thrash so hard and fast that they leave most hardcore bands behind in a cloud of dust, but they still manage to exercise a lot of brainpower. This EP is as intelligent, frenetic, and intense as any you’re likely to hear, so get it now before it’s out of print.
I normally hate heavy metal punk, but the EFFIGIES do it so well that categories become meaningless. “Bodybag” is appealingly straightforward while “Security” has a dance-oriented beat with layers of metallic guitar and an occasional dubbed vocal. The production here doesn’t compare with their earlier EP, but they do include some hilariously uninformed literature about punk rock by right-wing (U.S. Labor Party) and left-wing (Progressive Labor) retards.
Mediocre ’77-style punk, including one song (“White Boy”) about a dumb white guy trying to be as ignorant as some dumb low-rider types. Unfortunately, it’s not a satire, as singer Bob Noxious constantly finds new ways to act out his insecurities and aggression in public. Ignore.
Lightweight post-punk with sparse guitar and “modern” vocals. There are some interesting arrangements and hooks here, but they could use a heavier, more abrasive backing.
This band is one of the hottest, most awesome bands to ever walk onto a stage. They are not to be missed. Their first single was weak, and their LP was hard to make out, but this new single comes closest to capturing their raw, grating, high-speed velocity. Great!
Phoenix skateboarders thrash out and come up with an EP full of classy teenage punk anthems. The guitar could be more grating, but the songs are fast, catchy, and pretty damn funny (“Beach Blanket Bong-Out”). Check it out today, and skate your troubles away.
First release from them in two years. Side 1 presents the better aspects of the current line-up: more thrash out songs with good social commentary lyrics. A pleasant surprise. Side 2, on the other hand, is a live recording, and is more typically heavy-handed and nihilistic. At least most of the good songs are all on one side.
A strong debut by a young New York band, “God Is Dead” is the first thrash punk song from the Big Apple, unless you consider the BAD BRAINS a New York outfit. The other songs are fast but more traditional stylistically.
I would have thought it premature, but here’s a band that’s inspired by VICE SQUAD. Even though “What Justice” is super fast and catchy, one VICE SQUAD is enough, thank you.
’77-style punk from Texas. It’s real good in a vaguely nostalgic way, with lyrics ranging from intelligent (“Fallout”) to stupid (“Scrungy Girl”). “Radio Anarchy” is a particularly catchy track with slightly muddled sentiments.
A marked improvement over their debut. This time around their influences—SIOUXIE, GANG OF FOUR, etc.—aren’t as obvious, so if you’ve got a hankering for sophisticated guitar-oriented post-punk, DA is for you. “Strangers” is an especially haunting song, and the guitar work is exquisite throughout.
Fast heavy metal punk with good political lyrics. The tunes are strong, but there’s a bit too much lead guitar wanking for my taste, especially on “I’m Gonna Make You Scream.” Still, it’s a promising debut.
Firstly, it comes in a pizza box. Secondly, they explain that they are not three crazed TV addicts, but in fact are a scientifically planned event a la the MONKEES. Thirdly, they do lots of covers of TV themes. And mostly, they play dirty, rockin’ rockabilly a la early CRAMPS, lampooning just about everyone. They’re good fun, really rockin’, and highly recommended.
