Ever heard of a 33-song compilation on sale for 99 cents that was in the "new" bin instead of the "used" one, and it wasn't a mistake? You have now. As a gesture, a sneer against the music business, San Fran punk/hardcore label NRA decided to celebrate their tenth year by putting out a compilation (they must have to sell it to stores for 66¢!) that spans that decade of service with a few cuts apiece for most bands. Can't say they're not giving you value for money! Since the label is owned and run by legendary original
U.K. Subs guitarist Nicky Garratt, you know he's released an awful lot of goodies over that time, of which the 1979-1983
Subs reunion comprises three hot songs here. But that's just the start. Garratt's also got early-'80s New York thrash-era greats
Kraut,
Crucial Youth, and
Reagan Youth, and many So-Cal institutions -- some of which go back as far -- such as
Social Unrest, M.D.C.,
Samiam, and
Swingin' Utters. Some of it is charmingly amateur, such as
Loudmouths, a hearken back to a time when "anyone could try it" meant exhilarating instead of so damn boring. Others such as
Anti-Flag and
No Use for a Name show the benefit of extended rehearsal with their smashing cuts. It all adds up to a rounded and interesting revolt against robot society, indeed. (P.O. Box 210501, San Francisco, CA 94121) ~ Jack Rabid