This is the review section. I will review anything I want and anything that is sent to me that is scene related. Remember, opinions are like assholes....

Here's the rating scale*:  1-no good, not worth my time  2-mediocre  3-alright, has potential  4-good stuff   5-excellent, a classic

*1/2 points will be used as needed

This Mexican Skinzine just keeps getting better and better! Issue No. 5 has three out of four interviews in English with Spanish versions also. Short Cropped from Flanders give an especially good one as well as Italy's Stato Asociale and Itali-punks The Wankers. Layout is similar to No. 4 and I think that the editorial staff have found a classic looking format for their future issues. Editorials, bulletin board (complete with SCN t-shirt add! Cheers! Jose!), Top 5 songs from random people and one pooch, gig and record reviews, crew pics, and also a topless women who I officially nominate as girl of the year for bearing her breasts for Oi! in not one but two issues of Conducta Mecanica. That said, this one's got it all if you wake up and speak and read Spanish everyday; or maybe you hate reading in any language and like pictures, this has something for everyone! I may only be able to count to ten in Spanish but I say Numero Seis! Numero Seis!    5  -SCN  http://www.myspace.com/conductamecanica

ASCALON REC.

This plays like a more punk rock version of Condemned 84. A good hard vocal sound, loud but not metal sounding guitars, drums could be more solid but they make up for it in spirit and rockin' guitar riffs. No lyrics but you get some nice pictures of the band and company in the insert. The band deliver 15 tracks of Oi! on this disc with tales of true life and observations of the world around...I liked 'USE' (United States of Europe) I agree 100% guys and gals! 'Ballad of ten men Tom' is an Oi!-Punk classic, and 'Drug Pusher' has never been truer no matter which side of the Atlantic you call home. A particularly cool old school looking cover with no laser beams being fired by Cyborg Skinheads to be found, just stately and clean patriotic artwork. The only thing missing from this one is more feedback to add to the madness!    4  -SCN    myspace.com/northernscum    -     www.ascalon-records.com   

Randale Rec.

The newest release from these English Oi! vets and it's definitely one to wake the neighbors with!  What amazes me most about this group's music is their ability to tell a story as casually as if you were sitting right beside them in a pub somewhere and still make a storming racket doing it! This one is loosely themed about life in a working class street as the opening track proclaims "this is the story of people's lives on the street where we live/ I won't mince words, you know me I tell it like it is." The proceeding tracks do just that and mix Franky Flames' piano & keyboard sounds with acoustic and overdriven guitars, drums, bass guitar and on the last track titled "public bar" some fiddle, and other instruments unusual to this style. It all leaves me thinking "ah, just right." You get 13 tracks of stories of London pride, bank holidays, guys we all used to know, and Cockney kings...not a dud one really. This is surly some kind of mile stone in this band's career because I have honestly not heard another record quite like this one. Get this one or be left a hobo in the gutters of Quality Street!    5    -SCN  www.randale-records.de    -    myspace.com/superyoblondonuk

Maybe this movie would've been a lot cooler if I'd never even heard of Skinheads before and didn't know what to hear, see, and expect from the story-line and characters. A good flick though, with great acting and probably the most realistic portrayal of Skins as real people who have to deal with everyday life and the relationships and conflicts that we all form with others. You'll find no ridiculous "romper stomper" antics in this one! Storyline is predictable, but that is mainly due to the reasons stated above, with a young kid who's dad gets killed in the Falklands War and is getting picked on by these Mod looking bastards at school and gets taken in by a crew of Skins who introduce him to something real and THEN....I won't spoil it for you (and it would take longer to explain than I have the patience to type out). The interaction between the characters is done really well and the wardrobe worn by the actors is well put together. The montage at the beginning is honestly one of the best I've seen in a movie in awhile with a lot of great footage of the Falklands and other 80's footage of pop-culture to sort of set the background or stage for the events portrayed in the film. So, all in all, best fictional film I've seen about Skinheads to date. I watched it at a friends house so I couldn't tell you how much it costs! I'd say pick it up, you won't be disappointed.    4    -SCN

U&P is back! I wasn't around for the first issues of this fucked up and photocopied gem, so now I get to taste the glory. As you can tell from the cover, lots of interviews in here. The ones with Empire Falls, Blood in the Face, Verszerzodes....No Surrender; hell, they're all well put together and informative interviews with bands of varying styles in this issue. In the middle of this 18 page zine are music reviews and a couple of pages over are pictures from a St. Patrick's Day gig played in Central Florida. Also, the layout is nice, if only in B&W, with several pictures of the bands being interviewed. A great zine you might read on a car trip, or keep it in the bathroom, maybe attempt to read it piss drunk and get puke all over it; but regardless of how you choose to consume your issue of U&P there are two reasons to support this zine 1) it is a great read and 2) it is made of paper and not HTML and that is fine with this HTML-zine writer.   5  -SCN    myspace.com/unitedandpissed

Ah, WW they are a great live band and this DVD only re-enforces that fact. Nice video editing on these two discs with tons and tons of live footage of the band playing from California to Hungary on stages big and small. I especially liked the footage of the band being shown around Germany by a German guide and being kicked out of a Castle/tourist attraction for being loud mouthed Americans! haha. That has nothing to do with the music so back to our story. At no point during this film did it make me want to fast forward past the boring parts mainly because there are no boring parts and it is put together well. The sound quality at a recording of one of the shows was not so good, but the fact that the singer should probably lay off the Mountain Dew before taking the stage makes up for it! This one is a winner for sure, there is even a slide show of the group's flyers as some bonus material. Does not disappoint!    5  -SCN

EAR WAX FACTORY

This 17 track compilation does it's job in promoting the bands that are on it, but some of this is third rate punk in my opinion. The high points were the tracks by The Tradesmen, First Offense, Tommy Gutless, Born to Lose, and a couple of others. The playlist is hit or miss like many comps I've heard. Insert has the line-up of each band and contact info. This one does the job of promoting the bands but falls short on the quality of the songs picked. So, pick this one up if you wanna hear a few decent bands, but if your looking for a comp that you can put on and listen to all the way through I'd pick something else.    2  -SCN

STEP UP! REC.

This is the first full-length from this hard-working Akron, Ohio outfit. This band is a breath of fresh air in the style they do which I would compare to early Business meets the Ducky Boys with a little hardcore and even some good ol' American RnR gnawing around the edges! Despite all those different influences this band pull it all together into a sound unique to them. Also, the lyrical content seems a little more poetic (not the faggy emo type) and reflective than many bands of a similar sound and are definitely a cut above. Really original, if not a bit overdramatic, artwork with this one, but it does go with the title well. This also includes digital versions of the classic "stranded in the combat zone" EP tracks which is a top notch vinyl release on Step Up! Highly recommended! On a personal note, I've seen this band several times live and have to say that they are a great live band as well as people, so if they come through your town (which is a good possibility cause they play all over) ditch the monopoly board and go see this band because you won't be disappointed!    5  -SCN    myspace.com/firstoffense    -    www.stepupoi.com

STEP UP! REC.

This is strong mid-western Punk-&-Roll with a lot of melody and a nice dose of grit. Sort of a Brassknuckle Boys meets the GC5 sound happening here. This is a nice blend of styles with some Clash style guitar sounds and catchy choruses thrown in for good measure. The lyrics are honest and don't sound put on or about your typical subjects. Fucking awesome cover art! Although many bands do the "old school tattoo logo" for a front cover this one strikes me because it doesn't look like it was done on a computer like others I have seen and it has an eagle incorporated into the design....I like eagles. An eagle in a design gets you a least one bonus point with this reviewer, so bands take note! HA! But this band is pretty cool in my book, they sound like they would be fun to see live and a good band to have a beer or three to. They also do (as their "obligatory cover") Jail Guitar Doors by the Clash, so there's even more reason to like them. Good tunes + old school eagles = 4.5 -SCN    myspace.com/bastardschoir

DIEHARD REC.

This collection of demos & rarities from this Detroit based American Oi! band is, if anything, very comprehensive. 31 cuts of early practice tapes, EP tracks, comp tracks, and well, demos and rarities! Like the fucking title says! I'll play the honest reviewer and say that I didn't take to the sound of their full-length on Dim right off. It wasn't so much the bands sound as it was the to-clean-for-my-taste recording quality that can sometimes take the punch and grit out of a punchy and gritty band. That is not the case here! ALL the grit and all the sounds that make Oi! a great style of music are captured here. But unlike some other demos/rarities releases I've heard it's not that hard to pick out the words and various instruments etc. Hell, on the practice recordings if you listen close you can hear a small dog barking in the background in either joy or frustration at the band...I love it, classic. A nice fold out insert with the history of the band and the "original artwork" by the bands biggest fan "unlucky" Jen...it's nice to see that they are looking out for their fans. Yes people, this is a worth while release of a great US Oi! band that were very underrated in their time and I hope this album shows later generations that H&P were just as their name implied as well as a hard hitting Oi! band.    4  -SCN    www.diehardrecords.net   

RAMPAGE PRODUCTIONS

Newest release from this British RAC band. Kind of a departure from their earlier musical sound in that it is heavy and fast like TMF on speed. Some tracks seem repetitive for me...fast, heavy; fast, heavy, but not cheesy or boring really. Lyrics about police stopping gigs, stupid people who destroy what others build, and as always with ER, white pride. This album is a good one also because it includes several tracks that didn't make it onto the 'Dreams of Freedom' LP, which is one of my favorites from this band. All the lyrics included along with comments from Jonesy about where each song came from and when they were originally written...interesting stuff. A nice play on the Beatles album title/cover is sure to piss off members of the baby boomer generation in government watch groups across the world. If your pissing someone off you must be doing something right and that is definitely the case with this one.    4  -SCN

DIM REC.

Great American Oi! from Seattle, WA. Well put together riffs that actually sound like something and not generic. The vocalist doesn't seem like he is trying to sound like anyone besides himself which will always make people sit up and take notice. This LP (on blue vinyl) sports 9 tracks, of which 2 are covers in: Stars & Stripes "proud, strong, and free" and Combat 84's "trouble", both pulled off in true Oi! styling. The title track "American Made" is one that sticks out as well as "Rich KId Justice" with a really catchy chorus. One of the best looking covers I've seen in a long time...but I may be a little biased. The only let down was the low number of original tracks. But still a smash hit debut from a great new band to add to the ranks of the US Oi! legion. Do old glory proud nagras!    4  -SCN    www.crucialchange.com  -  www.myspace.com/crucialchange

CAPTAIN OI!

Sparrer are back with a brand new one for all the Punks and Skinheads. I can safely say that I didn't expect this to be very good as some "reunion" albums I've heard have just not been up to snuff in my humble opinion....how wrong I was with Cock Sparrer! Despite their age these melodic Oi!-Punk masters picked up right where they left off musically. All the songs have something to say and a catchy melody to leave you feeling satisfied. Song topics vary from economic realities in the smash hit opening track 'Too Late'; to long lost loves in 'Did you have a nice life without me?'; to the original punk movement in 'Spirit of '76', which has many references to The Clash and that is always cool; all the way to 'Sussed', a harder sounding tune about people who shouldn't open their mouths due to a constant flow of horse shit. The last tune titled 'Suicide Girls' is alittle cheesy but hey, SGs are hot as hell and the song has a good melody (did I say that again) so I can deal, haha. 14 tracks of Cock Sparrer goodness. This one is definitely in my top 10.    5  -SCN    www.cocksparrer.co.uk - www.cocksparrerlive.com - myspace.com/cocksparrerpunk

BARRACUDA REC.

First off, what got my attention about this record is the cover is fucking brilliant, really classic. I'm not to familiar with this groups' music and it was a throw of the dice as to what they would sound like, I soon found myself pleasantly surprised. This band plays tight "Oi! & Roll" with many songs faster than your usual music of this genre...I grew up on hardcore, so the faster the better I say! All lyrics are in the bands' native tongue of Italian except for a couple of choruses and part of the Cock Sparrer tune "England Belongs to me" which in the Civico 88 rendition is titled "Iraq belongs to me"...I'd love to have a translation if the lyrics are on topic! Some of the tunes do run together for me but I'm sure it is due to the fact that I don't speak any Italian except for the opening lines of the album which mean "fuck you" (for the language freaks like myself; phonetically: Va-func-oo-low!). The music is very melodic with lots of lead guitar riffs and sing along choruses. I'm sure this band is a live favorite in their home town and never fail to move the dance floor. Full booklet with lyrics and pics of the band and also pics to go with song themes as well, good release.    4  -SCN    www.barracudarecords.it

BHS SERVICE

Okay, let's put it this way this one has been in my CD player since I received it the other day and the songs are still fresh! Catchy as all hell and not boring sounding like some bands of this genre. Without a doubt, these Texas bootboys have made a classic Hate-core record. The band display a straight ahead no prisoners attitude with a sound that leans more toward a punk hardcore feel with very little metallic edge. Lots of catchy hooks and simple to-the-point chorus chants throughout. There are 13 tracks in all with one very nifty cover of Stars & Stripes 'Drop the Bomb' and an original bonus track. Also on this disc are two videos with live footage of the band moving the crowd with studio tracks dubbed on for sound quality. Great production and artwork with a booklet of all the lyrics with pictures and such. Finally I get my wish to hear a few more WW tracks (see pic. vinyl review below)....here's to 10 more years!    5  -SCN

These zines come from south of the border in Mexico. They are done up very nice with an eye peeled for quality and layout. Unfortunately for me these are totally written in Spanish...a language I'm not familiar with. But on the up side a friend of mine does speak some Spanish and translated a few of the questions/responses from the interviews. They seem thoughtful enough and not your run-of-the-mill shit which is always cool. Some of the content featured in issue No. 1 (Nov. 2004) are the bands Barking Dogs and Dramatic Battle. Some translations of lyrics from English to Spanish. A story about Cro-Mags and how they started and reviews of records/pictures and all that shit, a good first issue. No. 2 July 2005 has Headcase, Razorblade, and loads more. 2007's No. 4 issue follows much the same formula as far as layout and B&W color scheme only it keeps getting thicker! Hopefully a sign that the name is selling well. All in all, it's good news from Mexico and I wish this publication the best of luck!    4  -SCN    http://www.myspace.com/conductamecanica

AMERICAN DEFENSE REC.

A new US Oi! comp. featuring bands that hail from Dixie and a great follow up to 'Armed with the Truth'. In effect this is A.W.T.T. Volume 2 as the spine of this record indicates, but it seems to me that in naming the record 'Southland Skinheads' and with it consisting of strictly bands from the southern states, this label has avoided the old "not as good as the first one" shit that people always seem to pull...but you know what, FUCK PEOPLE! This is a great record with the best of the best in US Skinhead circles: ATF, Vanguard, The Pillage, Better Dead Than Red, and The Sluggers to name a few of the stand out acts. It comes with a big fat sleeve with most of the lyrics and liner notes from the bands. A nice original drawing for the cover and no punches pulled. This record is surly to become a piece of American Skinhead history and solidly presents good music by bands who tell it like it is and not how others think it should be told...and that is the essence of all Oi! and real music throughout history. This is the confederacy having their laugh and having their say; I only hope that we will hear more from A.D.R. in the future! Oi!    5  -SCN    www.myspace.com/americandefense

ASA PRODUCTIONS

England's Retaliator are back with a new concept album that tells a story in seven tracks, or "chapters" to give it more of a book feel. This is nothing short of a great piece of, dare I say, Oi! art! The story and music unfold in a very fluid way and the sound bites between chapters are very visual conveying well the story of friends who grow apart over the years then are reunited, in a way....no need to spoil it! I think different people might have different interpretations of the story but many aspects of the tale are set in stone as the lovely cover indicates. Anyhow, THE MUSIC! This is some of Retaliator's best efforts to date with taking their sound to another level and it shows throughout. Chapters 2 and 5 really did it for me the most and I could write three more paragraphs on why, but I'll spare you and just tell you to pick this one up. Retaliator have taken a great story and concept and made it into a kick ass record, and that's that.    5.5  -SCN    www.retaliator-england.co.uk    www.asaproductions.co.uk

CULTJAM REC.

THA-WHUNK! Billyclub deliver a massive dose of hardcore punk on this loverly little disc. They remind me of GBH mixed with Zeke which is a fucking great combo in my book! Songs are fast and to the point as you might imagine with no funny stuff in between. This is a good record to play while getting extremely blitzed and is certainly great party music (not the fucking club kind!) Billyclub definitely live up to the name of being a hard hitting band and these 14 tracks show their best side...loud and rowdy punk rock. Cool artwork too...you talkin' ta me?    4  -SCN    www.billyclub.co.uk  

CULTJAM REC.

This split showcases two bands from the same town in South Wales. Picture Frame Seduction (PFS) an original UK82 band along with new punks True Sounds of the Revolution (TSOTR) being a group, in true punk rock fashion, that decided to first make a joyful noise together at a PFS show....interesting stuff. PFS really impressed me at the first listen and write good songs that don't all sound alike like some of the UK82 bands. Vocal style is what I noticed first about them....not at all trying to sound like anyone else, an honest delivery throughout their six songs. TSOTR show much enthusiasm on their seven tracks and I can safely say don't sound anything like PFS to be formed under their apparently inspiring stage presence. The Virus comes to mind when you listen to songs like 'No Compromise' but that is only in the vocals. These guys have some pretty catchy tunes but I think they could be tighter as a band and easily stand up against anything the more experienced groups of this style are churning out. In conclusion, both bands drip with honesty and do it through great punk music which is really all that matters anyhow....THE MUSIC!    4  -SCN    www.pictureframeseduction.com

MICETRAP REC.

Good Finnish band. Most songs are in English with only a few in their native tongue. They have a similar style as Mistreat and you can hear the influence throughout but they have a sound all their own. This is a 'best of' and has several songs from three different releases along with three unreleased tracks. I like the fact that most of the songs have a positive feel about them and lyrics talk more about respect and pride than taking on a "we're all screwed" attitude and hating society...much like B&H era Skrewdriver and much of Brutal Attack. The music is tight but sounds really slickly produced and I think alittle too much for my taste. I really like this band for having never heard of them before.    4  -SCN    www.micetrap.net

MICETRAP REC.

This didn't do much for me and sounds sort of bland. Nothing really impressed me about this group and nothing really stands out to make you notice them. Lyrics are nothing to shout about and just kind of standard fair, just what you would expect from a third rate RAC band. Artwork is interesting though, with x-ray looking skulls and a hot chick (fully clothed mind you) shooting a pistol with part of her face photoshopped as a skull. That's about it really. Musically and lyrically...blah.    2  -SCN

MICETRAP REC.

Wow, this is really cheesy hate-core. The drums sound like they were recorded with a keyboard drum-machine and the guitar riffs are about as catchy as....nothing. Lyrics have NO class and can be described only as juvenile....and then there's the artwork! We must...never play "music" again!   1    -SCN

DIEHARD REC.

These are two lovely little DVRs that let's you see two of the best Oi!/RAC bands play some of their best live sets. First is Skrewdriver at the 100 club in the '"Back with a Bang" era...packed crowd, lots of beer, classic line-up and tunes, you can't go wrong really. Film quality is not so good as you might imagine due to the age of the original but that's the kicker! It's on DVD so it's preserved for the duration! Next is Brutal Attack/Skrewdriver in the mid to late 80s. B.A. put in an especially storming and impressive set and are joined onstage by English Nick of YDL fame. The film quality is better on this one but the first song 'Rock Against Communism' has been edited due to damaged frames, or maybe there was a mad dog running around on stage...we will never know. Both bands put in great sets and the energy stays pretty constant throughout. Both of these DVRs were more than I expected in quality of packaging and CD labeling. This is a chance for those who weren't present at these shows to see two classic bands play to enthusiastic crowds and in a solid digital format nonetheless, so there is no loss of quality with repeated plays. These shows are pieces of Oi! and RAC history and should make fans the world over jump for joy. Diehard scores again!    5  -SCN    www.diehardrecords.net

'07 band release

These guys LOVE the Clash which is obvious from the first song to the last on this 6 song EP. The singer sounds alot like Joe Strummer and the guitar sounds they use (telecaster included) resembles the last gang in town's tones very much. This, however, does not stop this Japanese 4-some from doing some much needed damage to my ear drums! All the lyrics are not in English but the ones that are will make you sit up and take notice..."two bombs were not enough...cause I'm still fucking here, yeeeeaaa!" THAT is a voice of anti-pc rebellion if I ever heard one! Every track has something catchy to offer up and the lead guitar often makes the song just that. These guys are kind of an anomaly really, you would think from the name and description of their sound that they are just a "wannabe" band but in fact the opposite is true. They seem to play from the heart and seek to be original by playing 'Clash' style punk but still 'Jail Guitar Doors' rock & roll, if you get me. I guess being a huge Clash fan myself helps tremendously, but I challenge anyone to listen to this group and NOT be caught singing one of their tunes as you walk down the street! The only negative thing I have to say in this review is that this should be a full-length LP and not an EP!    5  -SCN    myspace & http://jailguitardoors.com

'07 RAMPAGE PRODUCTIONS

If Combat 84 and Skullhead got into a brawl in one of those funny British telephone booths this would be the sound that would get the cops called. Really traditional sounding Oi!/RAC, simply played with none of that neuwarvo-metal-cockrock-soloing garbage. This is some good old political skinhead music that will definitely please the RAC listener as well as Oi! listeners who don't have time for anyone's politics but there own. Song topics and titles are pretty self explanatory and range from 'Football Violence', 'Junkie', immigration in 'Hang Your Heads in Shame', 'England', 'Skinheads', and how 'Enoch Powell was right' (had to look his story up) Also, nice production with all the lyrics and lots of pictures and shit. A good release from this new band.    4  -SCN   

'07 LOYALTY REC.

DAMN! I was not expecting this to be as energetic as it is! This is almost like the first time I heard 'Back with a Bang'...I knew I was going to love Skrewdriver and that's that! From the opening track 'I don't like you' from their 1977 album and all the way up to 'European Battle Song' from 1993's Hail Victory this record plays like an early show from the band (I've only seen video of course). Absolutely some of the best production I've seen to date with a huge glossy booklet full of pictures from every era of Skrewdriver; and penguin tits! LYRICS! something the ROR released albums never had. Great liner notes by Jonsey on how the record came about and Ian Stuart's influence on all things English Rose and RAC. The sound overall is heavy but not so much that it ruins the Oi!/rock sound of the original songs. I would even venture to say that some of these tracks sound better than the original recorded versions, which says alot for this incarnation of ER (please don't burn all your equipment and join a monastery guys!). This rules and that's that!    5  -SCN

'07 DIEHARD RECORDS / DEFIANT RECORDINGS

This release shows E.F. going for a more Oi!/RAC sound and pulling it off pretty well. Although, I gotta admit that I like their hardcore stuff alot better, but at the same time it's cool to hear this band still kick ass and piss everyone off...just with more of an Oi! pacing and fewer breakdowns. The title says it all about the content of the album as a whole and it delivers a big 'fuck you naysayers' throughout the 16 tracks. Also, there's a cover of BDTR's 'we ain't no feel good band'...great song, but the original is better I think. All in all, this is a great record for anyone who hates P.C. and enjoys alittle Rock Against Crybabies!    4  -SCN    www.diehardrecords.net - www.raise-hell.com

'07 ASCALON REC.

The first release from this new label from across the pond in England. I've heard mixed things about the British Skinhead scene lately but I truly believe that if more British youths listened to this record things could turn around! Many new bands are on this as well as ones who've kept the faith through thick and thin. After a short intro Condemned 84 has the lead track with 'the sound of Oi!' and it brings just what it promises. T.M.F. bring more madness to your Saturday night. Superyob voice their opinions on child abusers. Scum says Oi!. Retaliator has a great track, mixed alittle off sounding, but the music holds up. Splodgenessabounds, The Gonads and Vicious Rumours are back together. Loyalty, On File as well as other groups that both impress and are new to me: Code 1, Fatal Impact, Overload, Churchhill, & Nobodies Heros. 16 well chosen tracks and this record flows well from song to song. The cover leaves something to be desired but the content won me over. British Oi! isn't fighting back. IT IS BACK!...and never died in the first place! Oi!    5  -SCN    www.ascalon-records.com

'07 band release

Wow! What an opening track! This is very original Oi! that brings to mind Condemned 84 and early Skrewdriver but not trying sound like either of those bands. Well played with original vocal style, guitar & bass work together, drums leave alittle to be desired but they make up for it in songwriting and great melodies...it's the spirit that counts anyhow! Good cover of The Strike's 'Skinhead' and one stand out track in an album of stand out tracks is 'to the vets' which has a bagpipe intro and outro which makes the song all the more emotional (I didn't say 'emo' assholes!). This has a good variety of song topics and stays exciting throughout the 13 tracks. Canadian Skins have risen again!    5  -SCN    www.myspace.com/therookers

HEADACHE REC.

21 songs and this bitch was free...it's getting a review. Lousy Break are a NJ punk rock band who play it like it used to be...anti-intellectual and anti-p.c. and pro-beer. What results from this is great fucking punk rock and having a great fucking time. That's what it's all about right? Anyways, the recording sounds a bit flat but I think the band make up for this in energy and possibly drinking. Either way it works and this record is a good time. Booklet has all the lyrics and pics of the band playing live, they are a 3 piece and that rules too. I'd recommend this to anyone who likes punk, likes beer, and likes to have a good time cause this can satisfy all those outlets.    4  -SCN    www.lousybreak.com

'07 NECK REC.

A seven song split with three from DC's Alleged Bricks and four from Delaware's The Barons. A.B. are up first and bring a brand of fresh sounding Oi-Core with lyrics about life and shit that pisses them off...sounds like a formula for good Oi-Core to me. Each track has something to offer and the songs don't run together. The Barons tracks didn't really do much for me and the first three songs from them tended to sound alike. I really dug on the last song, however, 'Social Disease' which sees a different singer and is just an all around good rock n roll track in my opinion. The packaging has great cover and back-cover art but no lyrics. A good release but it could be better.    3.5  -SCN    www.allegedbricks.com   - www.myspace.com/thebarons  -  www.myspace.com/neckrecords   

This is a whopping 75 page black and white zine done up in England and given to me by the nice fellows from Lousy Break @ EC of Oi! Tons and tons of content with interviews with bands from all over like The Muggers, First Offense, Perkele, Band of Felons, Mummy's Darlings, Dead Heros, Urban Rejects, The Jinx, Crossfire, and many others. Interviews seem well put together and thoughtfully done. Layout is simple and a bit plain (like SCN is a flash site, haha) with just pictures and text on white paper. Fanzine and record reviews and only a few ad pages throughout....no one likes a zine that is half advertisements and this isn't one of them. If this zine sells for a reasonable price I would say that this is well worth picking up.    4  -SCN  www.myspace.com/oiwarningfanzine

'06 band release

First of all I am SHOCKED that this band is not on a label! These guys from up-state NY kick ass and I'm not talking in a cheesy cock rock way either. What you get here are 14 tracks not counting the intro of punk, hardcore, street rock, and Oi! all thrown into one big beer stein and drunk down by these guys and then happily spit out into a microphone. This comes with all the lyrics, pics of the band, and all that good shit. These guys played a storming set @ EC of Oi! so if they come to your town and you want to see a great band get out and support 'em!    5  -SCN   

'06 BARRACUDA

This fine slab of Italian Skinhead rock n roll has alot to offer. First off, some of the best art-work I've ever seen from a more RAC oriented band makes you notice this album as something original. The band indeed live up to this and play a melodic brand of Oi!/Skinhead Rock with some sing-a-long choruses and rocking solos to keep all of the maniacs in the crowd well cheerie. The vocals are what grabbed me about this band, as he seems to mean what he says. I don't speak a word of  Italian but this is a testament that heart-felt rock n roll is good in any language.    4  -SCN    www.legittimaoffesa.it

'05 STREETFIGHT REC.

Simply put, this band is great proof that Germany produces some of the best Skinhead music around. A really solid outfit with simple, but not cheesy, guitar riffs. A well varied sound throughout yet still consistent and all their own. This brings 14 songs minus the intro with 6 songs in very fluent sounding English and 8 tracks in the band's native tongue. A digi-pack production with all the lyrics and pics of the band. One tasteful touch is that the booklet background pictures are nicely stylized pics of the different "tools of the trade" of rock and roll...very cool. Favorite songs would have to be 'Let's have a good time' and 'Keine Kompromisse'. This is great sounding Skinhead rock n roll!!   4.5  -SCN     www.kommandoskin.com

GIG REVIEW-GIG REVIEW-GIG REVIEW-GIG REVIEW-GIG REVIEW-GIG REVIEW-GIG REVIEW-GIG REVIEW-GIG REVIEW

April 14, 2007 Lenny's Bar, Atlanta, GA -Black Daniels, Vanguard, Smash Points, Stormwatch, Condemned 84

Fucking hell! It's been over two days since the show and I still can't believe it! Me and a friend got to the bar about half-way through Black Daniel's set and were downing a Pabst or two as the band finished with a cover of Skrewdriver's 'Back with a Bang' which is always a good song to hear at anytime of day. Next up was Vanguard with a crashing set of originals and a great cover of One Way System's 'Stab the Judge'. I got up in front of the stage after that number and had a nice sing-song with 'Blowing their lights out' and 'Survival of the Fittest'. Then there was much drinking and pissing on toilet seats and it was time for Smash Points to go on. I will be totally honest and say that I don't remember what they sounded like because I had never heard their music before and I had had several beers. I remember that they were energetic and moved around alot and played a cover of Razor's in the Night that seemed slow to me! Maybe if I saw them again on less booze I could write something more detailed! Anyways, Stormwatch was up next and man, what a group. The band survived stage invasion after stage invasion through most of their classics. During their set came the only hint of trouble that I saw during the night; it being a minor incident that the bouncers diffused quickly. The two skins who were at odds later shook hands and I'm guessing it was a minor misunderstanding. Stormwatch finished their set and it was time for the moment of glory. Condemned 84 had not played in the USA since the early 90s and this was (to the people who matter) a historic event. The warriors of Oi! opened with Teenage Slag on through Young Blood, Under her Thumb, Skinheads, Psycho, Feel the Fear, Nutter, Bootboys, Face the Aggression, Keep the Faith, Trouble, and the song that I'd waited to hear live for a long time Oi! Ain't Dead. When the band had played the last number the PA stereo came on with Blitz's 'Razors in the Night' and everyone started to sing along. The band realized the atmosphere was one to be taken advantage of and agreed to do three more. These were, if I remember correctly, Up Yours, Unite, and closing with We will never die. I was in shock that I was actually seeing this band for most of the set and you have to factor in alcohol, so there is a margarine of error with the set list as I remember it. After C84's set I ran into the owner of Street Anthem Rec. and had some good conversation to complete the night. It was a good time had by all and despite all the rumors that don't mean shit and the shit talkers that mean less CONDEMNED 84 has successfully conquered the USA!

First band up on this split is Germany's Tollchock. The group does not seem afraid to voice their opinions or political views through music but do so without any obvious political ties to any particular side. It's always good to hear a band that has the balls to be themselves. This band's music didn't grab me at first but as I gave it a second listen it began to grow on me. It indicates in the booklet that this will sadly be their last recording. Each band has five original tracks and one cover song with Tollchock's being 'Pig Iron' from the mighty Anti-Nowhere League and T.M.F. striking true with The Cockney Rejects 'War on the Terraces'. T.M.F. are in their usual ruthless form and have found a good niche in the indiscriminate hatred department. As long as people hate shit T.M.F. will be right there singing about it!  'Driven by Hatred' would be a favorite on this one and 'Bring the Hammer Down' a close second. Lovely artwork and packaging with all lyrics make it worth your dollar. This one will make the knobble-knockers gobble and the pigs flee the scene.    4  -SCN

'07 DIM REC.

Philly's own are back for another round. SOL show alittle more variation in their sound with this one and many songs have a more melodic rock n' roll feel to them. Also on this album are the songs from the 'Justice Denied' 7" but re-recorded and I gotta say that I like the 7" versions better because they sound more energetic. 15 songs total with one cover of The Drifters 'up on a roof' which shows the band have a diverse musical taste. Every musician seems to bring something to the table and the recording sounds top notch as well. SOL have managed to make yet another classic American Oi! album. Enjoy it fuckers!    5  -SCN     www.myspace.com/sonsoflibertyusa   

'07 LOYAL 1

Great straight forward hard nosed Oi! from our cousins across the sea. VERY British and VERY pissed off is how I would describe the sound; in the same vein as The 4 Skins and Condemned 84. These guys have their own thing going though and are not a copy cat band by any means. I also like the fact that they are a three piece, kind of a "bare minimum" garage thing going on. Their songs are about a variety of topics like war veterans in 'For Valor', modern terrorism in 'The Fifty Two', drug ridden trendies in 'Got No Pride', and the world cup anthem 'Treading the Path' which all do well to keep this 6 song EP interesting. Nice full color production with lyrics and pictures of the band recording and slaughtering the innocent. I found nothing I disliked about this bands sound and they seem more than willing to "take no prisoners"....Oi!    4.5  -SCN    www.loyaltyengland.co.uk

AMERICAN DEFENSE REC.

This split plays like a brick to the balls. Vanguard offer a brand of simply played and very lethal Oi! Oi! music with more soul than a James Brown bass-line. You'll find no posturing from these North Carolina roughnecks with a fresh yet still traditional sound that has a real angry energy and street level truth that is missing from many bands...but not this one! Songs about being a skin, historic battles, and life in general all shouted with intensity that everyone and their mother should hear. ATF bring a more Oi-Core sound and a more social/political conscience in the lyrics. Some songs are not so memorable with the singer not sounding energetic but a few beers will always solve that. This band also sounds like they would be good live with fast songs like 'Anti-U' and 'A Plague in our Land' getting the crowd dancing and finger pointing in no time. Both bands posses a fresh  and original sound that takes no prisoners and is a solid step forward in Oi! and that's what the world should see more of.    4  -SCN    Band contacts: www.myspace.com/vanguardbcs & www.myspace.com/atfoi  

'06 REBELLION REC.

Discharger have to be one of the most talented and original bands currently kicking up the Oi! avenue nowadays. This is a smash hit follow-up to their debut and shows that they can push their sound even more. This release shows the boys trying their hand at a more Hardcore sound on a few tracks and even a more rock sound on one of my favorites in "Freedom". You'll find no cliches or scene rhetoric here, only honest music made by three guys and their observations on life through their eyes. With a better recorded sound on 'Our Hate Justified' along with straight talking lyrics and guitar lines that are as good as a cold beer after a days work, these proud Dutchmen continue to carry on the banner of Oi! without stereotypes or predictability. Nice artwork and production also.    4  -SCN   www.rebellionrecords.nl

'06 UNDERGROUND LONDON REC.

It took a few listens to get used to this group as it's not what I usually listen to, but this is very well played heavy mod-punk with some lovely female backing vocals. The cover is unique, if not a little strange, and reflects the entire theme of the album; very pro-British and "anglo-centric all the way!" This band features members of Superyob and Klasse Kriminale and reminds me of Cock Sparrer with more of a strolling approach. The first track impressed me the most with the opening lines "And when you look at me, I wonder what you see; Do you see the future, or do you see the pa-a-ast?" The singers vocals and writing are heartfelt as well as honest. With those two things in any bands arsenal it always makes for great music regardless of genre. The musicianship is dead on as well with catchy melodies and thumping rhythm section that never fails to complement. These tunes are for virtually anyone who is a fan of street music of any type and The Gods will have you singing along in no time.    4  -SCN    www.geocities.com/thegodsofconcrete/

'06 MICETRAP REC.

First off this is one of the best packaging jobs I've ever seen....especially with RAC releases. All the lyrics to ER's first two LPs and a few paragraphs from the lead singer, Jonesy, about how the 2 albums came about, when they were recorded, line-ups, etc. Lots of pictures through-out the full-sized booklet of the band as youngsters to more recent gigs as haggard old men (j/k). The first LP "Never be Silenced" has a more raw sound to it and is more simplistic musically. The second album "the flame still burns" shows alittle more articulation and a cleaner recorded sound. But what both these albums do best is kick ass and kick it in proper form! And that's what matters at the end of the day! Favorite songs would have to be Wasting Away and R.A.C. They also do a great version of Cock Sparrer's "England Belongs to me" which is always a crowd pleaser. So, to sum it all up, if you don't buy any other RAC albums in the coming new year, buy this one...you won't be disappointed.    5  -SCN

'06 TKO REC.

Promo Copy

This record may have had more of an affect on me if I were from north of the mason-dixon line, but sadly I'm from football country; so I really have nothing to relate to on this record other than the fact that this is some pretty good punk rock. As you can tell by the stylish cover this 6 song EP is about HOCKEY. Nearly every song is about hockey, about hockey fans, or about the Philadelphia Flyers. This record screams "Target Audience" and call me crazy....but I think that's what they were shooting for! So, if you love your punk and you love your hockey get this when it comes out on January 9, 2007.    4  -SCN

'06 BANDWORM REC.

The first full-length by this Dutch band and it doesn't disappoint! 12 tracks that show some variation in sound from their previous release and also sees some of the other members taking lead vocals. Some tracks have a harder Oi! feel and some have a more melodic sing-a-long "street-rock" sound to them. They pull their sound together through-out the album and it all flows really well despite the difference in the sound of a few of the songs. This CD also includes their first blow to the international Oi! scene; the phenomenal "Viva Mestreech" MCD. (Close Combat's first release literally left me speechless and that's all I can say about that record!) Song topics range from serving jail time to rousing drinking songs to anthems of Skinhead Pride and observations of life in general that all make for great rock & roll. Guest of the State is an awesome release and I only hope this group has many more years of shouting Oi! and causing havoc.    5  -SCN

'04  ILLUMINATI  PICTURES

This DVD is of the Spring Broke festival which took place in Atlanta, GA in 2004. Some of the best American Oi! bands, both new and familiar, are featured on this disc. Awesome sound quality and camera work go hand in hand with the bands that make the show and some cool special features too: Director's commentary, "The Night Before" (a short film of the night before the show), and commentaries by "slim" the crackhead. The only draw back to this is the fact that there are only one or two songs by each band.....more we shout! Oh well, you can't have everything. But seriously, this is a great DVD and I'd recommend it to anyone who wants to know what's been going on in the recent US punk/Oi! scene. Some stand out sets were: Tried & True, Nation of Suspects, The Butchers, Terminus City, The Antagonizers, & No Holds Barred. Interviews with the bands and other good shit like the "Rod Stewart Connection"....you just have to see it.    4  -SCN

'06 STEP 1

Their 1st full-length originally released on Screwed Up Records of Germany and includes the "Another Day in Paradise" 4 track EP. This album definitely shows the bands maturity through recordings. The sound quality is not the greatest on the "Ejected...." tracks and some of the lyrics and song structure are a bit off sounding, but they could still write a rousing chorus and throw in a ton of melody without sounding soft, so this was only the beginning! And what can be said of "Another Day in Paradise"? The EP shows the band with a solid line-up and a solid sound to boot! Step 1 does a nice job with the booklet and packaging with all the lyrics to both records with pictures of the line-up that recorded the full-length. This was a solid first record for a band that went on to become (and still is) one of the best bands to come out of Scotland.    4  -SCN

'06 AMERICAN DEFENSE REC.

This release was not nearly as good as I expected it to be. It has great packaging and art-work but this just doesn't deliver on the musical side. The band chose some pretty cool sound clips and spoken lyrics in between tracks but they are the most interesting parts in my opinion. Nothing about this really grabbed my attention just so, so Oi-core that made me yawn. This band may be great in a live setting but on record there is nothing exciting about their sound. I did, however, like the fact that they show some state pride through their music and have the brass to shout it out loud that they are not from what is considered a "cool" state who can boast a boat load of Oi/Punk/Hardcore bands. So, I dig on what this group stands for and also for American Defense but this is mediocre in the music department.    2  -SCN

'05 H8STORE

Pretty good hardcore from this Texas outfit with a serious "kill you dead" attitude. FAST, FAST, FAST with no time to waist in the NA tradition but with alittle longer songs. This is Negi-core in the same vein as Empire Falls and there ain't a damn thing wrong with that. Tracks 1-12 are studio recordings and tracks 13-18 are a few of the studio recorded songs except recorded in a rehearsal setting. Straight Laced Nightmare kill everything they see and more on this album and I hope to hear more from them in the future.    4  -SCN

'03-'04 BORDS DE SEINE

Urban Crew are France's answer to Agnostic Front with more Oi! in the mix. All the lyrics are in French but my favorite track is "instinct de survie". Rumbling guitar and deep vocals give it a hardcore feel but with the mid to up tempo drums is what creates their own "Paris Oi! Core" sound. Fucking awesome cover art for this with alot of attention to detail. Also comes with a bonus EP of covers from some classic French Oi!/Punk/RAC groups such as Brutal Combat, The Trotskids, and Reich Orgasm. In the 80's France was blessed with some great Oi! bands and I think that modern groups doing covers of those old songs will turn more people on to that music. I'd recommend the Chaos en France comps to anyone who likes a good melody and doesn't mind hearing music in a foreign language. Loads of pictures on the insert and full lyrics included, a really solid release.    5  -SCN

'06 STRAIGHT HATE

This 10" picture disc is a rocking chunk of old-school styled hardcore/hate-core that is what I would like to hear out of more modern bands. The record starts off on a positive note with "high life" on the A side which is about the dangers and stupidity of drug use. The song has a few melodic breaks and the characteristic hardcore breakdown near the end and a good choice for an opening track. The B side features two covers of State of Alert and Uniform Choice which are both well played and represent their influences for fast-as-hell old school hardcore. My only complaint with this record is that it doesn't have at least one more original White Wash track!    4  -SCN

'06 G.L.N.S. RECORDS

A great new split from one well known and one newer RAC band. English Rose start the record off strong with: "I hope that you can hear me?, Can you hear me clear as day?" Yes, that we can, and English Rose is sounding good as always. Kill Baby, Kill! bring a fresh and hard brand of Oi! with a great vocal style that sounds like no one I've heard before. Also, these Belgians seem to play from the heart which is always a must if you want your groups music to be memorable with the Oi!/RAC crowd. Lots of classic pictures of skinheads running riot and even few pics I've never seen before. Both bands put forth a great effort and play their little black hearts out. If your looking for phseudo-Oi-neuarvo-Metal-core this ain't the album to pick up on your day off....this record rocks harder than Bon Jovi on a heavy metal hair day....hehe.    4  -SCN

'06 REBEL RECORDS

Newest one from these German skins that has me shouting and sometimes falling asleep. 16 songs of Oi!/RAC with a good balance between songs sung in English and songs sung in their native language. I think it may be the way that this album was recorded with drums & bass WAY low and LOTS of guitar that has it losing my attention at times. The whole overpowering treble thing is just not something I dig on. It seems to be the same old Faustrecht, but, I'll tell you: the way an album is recorded can bring a bands' music alive or bury it and I think the latter is the case with this one. The songs have alot of melody but are not too sugary and maintain an edge throughout. Nice packaging and full lyrics make it worth your dollar too. This one is alright but the recording takes away from an otherwise good release.    3.5  -SCN    www.faustrecht.de / www.rebel-records.com

'05 BANDWORM RECORDS

Perkele are at it again with this digipack that is much more melodic and catchy than "Stories from the Past". 10 songs of skinhead pride and also songs about life in general. A good variety of song topics and of course the bad ass musicianship that, if you've heard this group before reading this, you know what I'm talking about. Perkele can write some of the catchiest and yet so simplistic music it will make you think....and this is not a plug to other bands but, "is this really an Oi! band playing in my CD player." You fucks know what I'm going on about; sometimes things can sort of run together from band to band nowdays and Perkele is one to grab if your in the mood for something a little different yet still familiar. So what do I have to say to those who've never heard Perkele....know your damn Perkele! Especially those of you from the US reading this! This band should play in the states and be on Oprah...weekly, so they can shoot her with a gun that fires copies of this album!  5  -SCN    www.perkele.cjb.net  or  perkele on myspace

'05 MOTHER FUCKING SOUNDS

Has a Brittany Spears track ever made you foam at the mouth and fist-fight 13 year old teenie-boppers? Do you have tattoos that are more than just an "accessory"? I think that most people who visit this site for a reason can answer with a proud "hell yea!" to the previous questions. This album is for us! 15 tracks of mayhem and debauchery with lots of hate for virtually everything except the things that truly matter in life....drinking, fighting, & fucking. The name of this band should give you a good idea of what they sound like also... no non-sense, hardcore guitar style with the vocal nastiness of Jonsey. Also a nice booklet with tons of full color photos of various "tattooed motherfuckers" and some attractive female T.M.F. as well. This one is good to play on a rainy day; or in the car when your going across town to beat the fuck out of someone who owes you money; or just by the fire at home....roasting a mortal enemy. You catch my drift?    5  -SCN

Great fanzine put out by Audrey, a French Skingirl living in Ireland at the moment hence the leprechaun on the cover! I am sad to say that I got a "D" in high school French (we Americans are so STUPID!) so I cannot read much of this zine. But the cover says it all with interviews with SUPERYOB, hailing from the UK ,which is alone worth buying the zine just to read this interview with a classic English Oi! band! Irish psychobilly band SPELLBOUND gives an informative interview about the early psycho scene in Ireland and another Irish outfit, a Ska group called THE NAILDRIVERS, is questioned with thoughtful and intelligent finesse. I can always tell when an interview has been put together in a shoddy manner and I saw no red flags here. The last interview in English that I will mention is with a Skingirl named Traycee who does a zine named "A TRIP TO Oi! TOWN" It's cool for once to read an interview with someone who is not in a band or any other common position to be interviewed. This zine does not have a glossy cover or print shop fanciness, but all in all it's a lovely little zine that does it's job well in promoting cool music and culture! As Franky Flame says in the Superyob interview "A-T-T-I-T-U-D-E-! First and foremost" Which is obviously first with this one. Get your copy here    4 -SCN

'06    DIEHARD RECORDS

A nice little re-release of this classic Oi!-Core album which was originally set upon the world in 1991 by the Rock O Rama  label. The great thing about this release is that it is a GOOD QUALITY re-do of the old record sleeve with new art work and it also makes this music available to new people who weren't around for the first ROR pressing. I've seen/bought some really poor re-releases in the past and this is definitely one of the best ones I've had the pleasure of owning. As far as the music goes, it is fast and furious Oi!-Core with some good musicianship and an uncompromising rough vocal style. Complete with all the lyrics; which is probably something the ROR release lacked but I don't know that for sure. As an added bonus you can see these guys in action! Working the crowd into a frenzy in Buffalo, NY '93 which can be accessed when you place the disc in your friendly home PC. This disc is well worth your dollar for two main reasons: 1. you receive a classic US Oi! record & 2. you get to see over 30 minutes of live footage of the band killing everything in it's sights! all for under $15.  5 -SCN    www.diehardrecords.net

'06 AMERICAN DEFENSE REC.

New compilation from this new record co. that is slowly but surely taking the US by storm. This comp is one of the best and most "complete" sounding various artist albums I've heard in awhile. A wide variety of acts from across the country from CA., to KY., down to Dixie. Bands from virtually every region of the USA are featured here, many in raw demo form that adds a kind of classic appeal to the whole record. Great packaging that we've all come to expect and an insert with all the lyrics plus pics of the bands. My favorites are The Pillage and Nobody's Fools. Also, Lonesoldier bring a tribute to the British Oi! sound with The 4 Skins "wonderful world" which is very tasteful. This is un-polished, un-relenting, and un-compromising American Oi! No watered down "warped tour" friendly bullshit, only ultra-liberal ass stomping. This album will have alot of people who think they've got the meaning of  Oi! music pinned going "HUH"!?! and that's a good thing....people's belief systems need a good shaking up every once and awhile. Long live US Oi!  5 -SCN    www.american-defense.net

'01 SCREWED UP RECORDS

This record is alittle older than I usually like to have up for review, but this is SUCH A FUCKING GOOD ALBUM  I had to express my excitement! This is great melodic Oi! at it's finest. Catchy choruses, simple guitar, and great lyrics about everyday skinhead life (you'll find no tales of romantic violence here). These Scots (if you didn't figure that out by the clever title you should get out more) are older dudes and aren't afraid to sing about growing up without growing their hair and hit the nail square on the head in conveying this through the voice of Oi! This is the type album that, while listening to it, makes you stop and say "damn, that's some good music"! Every song is different yet the same, in that they pull their sound together and make it distinctly "On File". The only influence I could put my finger on would be The Templars in the way the guitar is voiced, but even at that they do it their own way. I don't know how readily available this record is, but if you run across it, buy it! It is well worth your money.  5 -SCN    www.onfileskinheads.com

Issue #1

A really cool zine from Jersey with a nice layout and good stories that aren't typical of these type operations. The "punkitorials" section has a range of subjects from a cops-busting-up-a-punk-show account, to (my favorite) "Liberties Roots" which talks alittle about how Benjamin Franklin influenced the writing and wording of the Declaration of Independence and gives background info on Franklins' acceptance of the ideals of the English Enlightenment. Internet links at the end of the column will help you to seriously KNOW YOUR ROOTS! Then there is an interview that can be found on this site that I did with Travis C. of American Defense Records before I started SCN. I whored it out cause it didn't have a home and ADR wasn't getting exposure with it, so it's good to see it in print! Other interviews include Craig Downtown who put on the wonderful EC of Oi! fest in Allentown, PA with lots of pics from said festival; Mark Linskey from The Hudson Falcons; and Travis N. of the Hub City Stompers. I could go on telling you what's in this nice little production all night but that'll spoil it all! Send off for it! contact the editor here: pappaskin2003@yahoo.com or www.myspace.com/bootsandroots   

'05 BLIND BEGGER/PURE IMPACT

Alittle heavier sound on this one from these Scottish skins. Some good songs and some that don't do much for me. Song topics range from public dissent, the resurrection of British Oi!, tramps, terrorism, drug users, and a special bonus track everyone can appreciate! This is a good release but doesn't have the classic appeal of earlier albums. 3.5 -SCN    www.bakersdozen.5u.com

'03 RABIAT RECORDS

This split offers two well represented styles. Operace Artaban brings a skinhead rock sound with influences that range from metal, punk, oi!, and even alittle ska thrown in for good measure! Zaciatok Konca play very melodic and catchy tunes that will have you singing in the shower. All lyrics are in the bands' native languages but translations are included in the nice booklet with tons of pictures of these Czech & Slovak bootboys. This is a great release from two bands that should be well known in US skinhead circles and is a good addition to anyone's collection. 4 -SCN    www.operaceartaban.wz.cz    www.zaciatokkonca.streetpunk.cz

'06 NORDISC

This is a lovely slice of hard Oi! all the way from Deutschland. They have a very original sound with all-German lyrics (except for a few choruses) . I think if they did some songs in English they would be more well known in the states; but hey! maybe they like playing to only German audiences! If I saw them live I'd pretend to know how to say the words cause they rock anyhow, haha. What we have here are 12 tracks including an intro with just the right amount of melody and roughness. From the first note to the last this album kicks your ass! Nice cover art too. 5 -SCN  www.kampfzone.net

'06  PROPHECY RECORDS

Definately B.D.T.R.’s best material to date. More melodic than their previous efforts this album is lengthy (18 tracks), but every song has something to offer. Great cover with some cool original art work, a simple yet attractive lay-out that doesn’t look like every other CD on the rack, and musically flammable to boot! My favorite songs off this would have to be “ultra-terror” and “always too late”. Comes complete with black flag to help exterminate those pesky marxists. 4 -SCN    www.smashthereds.com

'05  PURE IMPACT

The mighty Retaliator! This is supposedly their last album, but let’s hope these guys are tempted back onto the stage with cake & ice cream and large quantities of brew! Anyways, this album is not as good as their previous releases. It doesn’t have a “complete” feel from the first song to the last that I look for in a record. There are some great songs on this though: A Bridge too Far, Bloodshed and Conquest, and Another Nail in the Coffin come to mind along with a cover in Madness’s “Bed & Breakfast Man” which is cool. A traditional tune “Chosen Men” came out well also. Awesome packaging from Pure Impact with lyrics, pictures, the whole deal.....I like Retaliator, but this one just doesn’t seem to have the punch of the albums & singles preceding it. 3 -SCN    www.retaliator-england.co.uk

'05  84 RECORDS

Hey, what can I say about this group. From the second I heard the bass intro to Oi! Ain’t Dead when I was 15-16 I knew that this band was going to be a favorite. One reason this “best of” is helpful is that it includes songs that were on various limited singles and EP’s that young`uns like myself didn’t get to hear when they originally came out. Insert has all the lyrics and CD inset shows album charts and flyers. There seems to be nothing missing in the track listing so I’m sure alot of thought went into picking out which songs would make it onto this release. 5 -SCN    www.condemned84.com

'06 STA PRESS/STREET ANTHEM RECORDS

BLAM! SMASH! One great song after another. Over 53 different bands on this and it will cost you only $12 of your hard earned punk rock dollars. Nearly every part of the country is well represented in this finely packaged piece of continued history. The campy drawing on the front tops it all off; “OH NO GUYS! MY BOOOOOTS!!!” The length of this comp also makes it flexible for all occasions, parties, weddings, car rides and viewings. There is something for everyone here and it’s a modern classic so ya can’t go wrong. 5 -SCN