No Use For A Name - The Feel Good Record Of The Year
Considering I was barely three years old when No Use For A Name hit the music scene in 1987, later releasing their debut album ‘Incognito’ in 1990; they must be doing something that is keeping them in the limelight. Considering the existence of most bands today is a year or an album or two, No Use For A Name have been able to maintain high standards of music and thrills.
The title of this release ‘The Feel Good Record Of The Year’ has hit the nail right on the head. As far as this year goes, this is one of, if not the most enjoyable record I have had the pleasure of listen to. This is the bands ninth actual studio album; some say it could be their best record to date considering both song quality and production. I have previous listened to only a few of the bands albums preceding this one, and I say there is something optimistic, bubbly and refreshing about it I the wake of so many screaming and what seems like manufactured modelled bands out there.
The sound No Use For A Name has been focusing previously has evolved through their career, to the point where they are now taking a much lighter and poppier approach to their own specific melodic punk rock. ‘The Feel Good Record Of The Year’ has aspects from the band's earlier albums, with a lighter feel. There are upbeat bouncy numbers in the form of ‘Domino’, ‘Pacific Standard Time’ and the title track. The mysterious folksy guitars of ‘Kill The Rich’ bring it into a new light, while the anxious edge of ‘The Trumpet Player’ makes the outgoing electric instrumental give me shivers within my seat. Likewise, ‘I Want To Be Wrong’ has a way of making the hairs on my arms stand on end, while at the same time making my toes snuggled deep in my socks want to begin to tap. A brighter side comes within the smooth running of ‘Yours To Destroy’.
No Use For A Name proves in no doubt that punk rock is here to stay, but they also have a softer side, which shines on the acoustic ‘Sleeping Between Trucks’ and the piano friendly ‘Ontario’. The vocals blend within the mix of songs incredibly. They are particularly catchy on ‘Biggest Lie’ where they differ between vocalists, which keeps listeners on their toes.
I was incredibly impressed by this album, so much so I went to see them live at the Islington Academy. You can check out my review of that performance at: -
No Use For A Name Live