No Idea Records released a stack of CDs at the back end of last year – at least we were sent a stack of releases at the back end of last year, so either we were sent a big stash at once, or the label had a sudden productive spurt. Glass and Ashes are from Ventura, California, according to the accompanying press release and from the first strike of a guitar chord to the very last drumbeat there’s a definite nod towards Fugazi and the Dischord-style of punk rock that is revered by many. I won’t profess to being particularly knowledegable about that style of music, Fugazi aside I’ve never really given it too much of a listen, but what is noticeable on ‘Aesthetic Arrest’ is that the band have a raw emotion that is certainly vacant from many modern day, and more popular, bands.
The guitars are often chaotic on this release; there’s a semblance of a lack of organisation, perhaps some spontaneity, in the song structure. There’s definitely a large helping of political thought mind you – there’s chanting and shouting in the intro and tracks like ‘Eighty-Six’ and ‘Dead On Arrival’ are particularly punishing, while ‘Bloody Knuckles’ reminds me of Planes Mistaken For Stars, albeit with better vocals. Fans of No Idea bands will want to add this to their collection, if they haven’t already, while those awaiting Fugazi‘s next move could be kept quiet, short term at least, with this album.
No Idea
Paul