Review: Back in 1999, four years before the release of what many perceive to be the self-titled debut full-length from Canadian post-hardcore heroes Billy Talent, the band first released Watoosh! under their original moniker of Pezz (which they subsequently changed after running into legal trouble). Whilst receiving a CD re-release in 2005 via Atlantic Records, the album has never been made available on vinyl until now. Remastered by Harry Hess at HBomb Mastering and distributed by longstanding Canadian punk label Dine Alone (home to the likes of Alexisonfire and City & Colour), the newly revitalised tracks bear all the trademarks of the band's eccentric yet gnarly approach to punk with a notably less reliant focus on instantaneous hooks prevalent in their major label latter days. While the multiple blank tracks of silence have naturally been omitted for the wax pressing, the one instrumental piece "Track 13" remains as the re-titled 'Organ Interlude' before closing with the blistering cover of The Tragically Hip's 'New Orleans Is Sinking'.
Review: If you're familiar with Dead Moon, then the name Pierced Arrows might ring a bell. For the uninitiated, Dead Moon spent 20 years creating raw, unpolished garage-punk, cultivating a dedicated cult following. After disbanding, Fred Cole and Toody didn't stay silent for long, teaming up with drummer Kelly Halliburton to form Pierced Arrows. Pierced Arrows maintain the gritty essence of their predecessors, crafting music that perfectly complements a night of beer and bar brawls. This debut record from Pierced Arrows is all about authenticity, with no frills or studio gimmicks. Tracks like Frankenstein' and 'Caroline' evoke a bygone era, blending 60s psych-rock with early punk's raw energy. 'In My Brain' delivers heavy riffs and introspective lyrics, appealing to metal fans. Their take on Neil Young's 'Mr. Soul' adds a rough edge to the classic. The standout track, 'Up on a Cloud,' combines Irish and rock influences for a potent mix.This straightforward collection resonates with both long-time Dead Moon fans and newcomers alike. Fred and Toody Cole, alongside Kelly Halliburton, bring a harder edge to Pierced Arrows, proving that age hasn't softened their sound. Originally released in 2008, this legendary album is now reissued on vinyl, making it accessible once again. Pierced Arrows debut is a killer record that embodies a rare, raw authenticity in today's music scene.
Review: Returning with their first new music in 16 years, Unt is the latest (comeback?) album from lesser-known true punk lifers Pinhead Gunpowder. Often perceived as the side-project of Green Day frontman Billie Joe Armstrong, real ones will be quick to let you know that the first incarnation of the band back in the early 90s didn't even feature the songsmith, who would join during their second reformation, as they were never truly a band with a direct mission statement or cohesive through-line. In other words, they were about as punk as you can get in terms of ethos, camaraderie and disorganisation before even touching on the music. Having last performed live together at a benefit show at 924 Gilman Street in Berkeley, California on February 12, 2010, while more than a full decade would pass until all of their previous albums were reissued on vinyl in 2021, all of these moving pieces (many of which took shape during the COVID lockdowns) have seemingly been in service of their true return with Unt. As Armstrong confessed in a recent interview - "We haven't really made any plans outside of making an album - except for some fantasies about maybe doing some touring", it appears the pinheads haven't lost one iota of lackadaisical uncertainty, while this half-hour of frenetic punk-popcore reassures they haven't missed a sonic (d)beat either.
We use cookies to personalise content and ads, to provide social media features and to analyse our traffic. We also share information about your use of our site with our social media, advertising and analytics partners who may combine it with other information that you've provided to them or that they've collected from your use of their services.