My Republic,
Good RiddanceI don't think Good Riddance need too much of an introduction. Legendary in skate-punk and melodic hardcore circles, they're one of the mainstays of the EpiFat scene which spawned a generation of new bands. With several releases which deserve to be part of any punk fan's collection, Russ Rankin and co are ones pretty much everyone reading Punktastic should know about. 'My Republic' is the band's first album in a while, coming on the back of releases by Only Crime and Outlie, as well as various members taking time out.
In crude terms, Good Riddance sound like an amalgamation between Bad Religion and Sick Of It All - certainly aggressive enough to get the blood flowing, yet maintaining a melodic streak to have you singing along with gusto. 'My Republic;' isn't the band's best record, but it's still a very good one. Bill Stevenson's production makes each snare drum crack and each chord ring out, making the band sound fuller and fatter than they ever have. 'Tell Me Why' features some freight-train vocals which career out of the speakers and literally thud into your ear drums, while the riff-tastic 'This Beast Is Dangerous' bellows and bangs from all corners.
This isn't classic Good Riddance, but it's a welcome return from a band who have never really gained the commercial success their efforts have deserved. A good, solid record which harks back to the good old days of Fat Wreck - one for the older EpiFat fans to savour.
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