This fall, Cobra Skulls released their debut album for Fat Wreck Chords, titled Agitations. The band hails from Reno, Nevada and plays a unique brand of rockabilly-infused punk. Agitations is an urgent and well-rounded record, and certainly the most impressive effort thus far from Cobra Skulls. We spoke with singer/bassist Devin Peralta and discussed how the album was written and recorded, what some of its songs are about, touring and more.
In July of 2000, The Weakerthans released their second and highly-influential full-length, Left and Leaving. The following year, they played Fireside Bowl in support of the album and we spoke with singer/guitarist John K. Samson after the show. We sat outside the venue and discussed touring, the inspiration for some of his lyrics and more. Even after all these years, The Weakerthans’ shows at Fireside remain especially memorable for their unique intimacy. Here’s to hoping that they someday write new music and play shows again. Continue Reading…
Noise By Numbers recently released a video for the song “Disappointed,” which comes from their latest album and Jump Start Records debut, Over Leavitt. Noise By Numbers features members of The Bomb, Dan Vapid & The Cheats, Textbook and others. Later this month they’ll release a split seven-inch with England’s The Magnificent, and it will be available on colored vinyl via Solidarity Recordings, (USA) and Drunken Sailor Records, (UK). Take a look at the video above and order the new record here.
Red Scare Industries – Release Date: 9/13/11
With Borrowed Time, their third full-length and debut album for Red Scare, Nothington has crafted not only their best record yet, but also one of the top releases of 2011. Nothington’s folk-inspired tendencies are still apparent, as is their affinity for bands like Social Distortion and Leatherface, but this time around the focus is mainly on straightforward, melodic punk rock. The end result is a timeless and consistent album that’s both well written and highly listenable. After an initial spin of Borrowed Time, it’s clearly evident that Nothington is a capable band and fully aware of its strengths. There may not be much variation or experimentation on this record, but sometimes that’s okay, especially when this many solid and catchy songs are present. Each entry is built around a sturdy rhythm section, complete with inspired drumming and big bass lines. The vocals are gruff and deal with life’s various struggles, and are teamed with soaring backups and skilled guitar leads. Highlights include the road-weary tale of “Where I Can’t Be Found,” a driving, rhythmic march called “Far to Go,” the mega-anthem that is “St. Andrews Hall” and a somber tune named “Hopeless.” Borrowed Time is an energetic and detailed album that sounds great and improves with every listen. It would likely appeal to a wide range of punk fans, because this record’s combination of classic and contemporary styles should prove relevant for years to come. Check it out now and get to know one of the most promising, on the rise bands around.