Skate Rock vol.1

DC Jam
2009

Back in the 80's I wasn't always that big on compilation albums for some reason. I guess the whole album by one artist just appealed to me more. However over the years I have become more receptive to compilations and realize that good ones can be like a smorgasbord of bands and sounds if done properly. What we have here is 52 tracks from 30 bands on 2 discs. The roster includes: JFA, Dwarves, Swingin' Utters, Government Issue, McRad, Trusty, Minus-One and many more. The sounds are slightly varied as there are noisy bands, some funky acts, a few pop-punk bands too, but most fall closer to old style hardcore or simple punk rock. Not every song is a winner, but at 90% were likable. One of the good things about punk rock compilations is how short the songs so if you don't one well it will be over so and on to another one. There is certainly a lot to offer here including the Misfits-inspired Plan 9 and the solid, but self indulgent ramblings of the Naked Lady Wrestlers. The production is better than compilations from twenty-some years, but the energy is just as abundant. Certainly a collection with a lot to offer for fans.