Brighton skacore (and then some) livewires THE JUNK follow up 2009’s impressive 12 minute ‘Novus Ordo Sectorum’ EP with this debut full-length, ‘Problem Reaction Solution’. With a title that checks David Icke’s philosophy on illuminati and the global elite expect politically charged lyrics alongside DIY ethics. Oh, and a bloody impressive horn section.
The Junk‘s sound hasn’t altered too much since that previous release. A few moments where added layers have been inserted (is that a violin on ‘D.T.S.F.C?’), but for the most part this is a combination of the early 2000’s Household Name sound and more contemporary bands (The Skints, Random Hand, Kickback UK) that pricked the ears previously. The band mixes up boisterousness (‘Left For Dead’) with musically intricate subtlety (‘Politics With Nightsticks Pt. 2’). It’s not uncommon then to have a sweet reggae breakdown within touch of guttural vocals, or upbeat ska strokes mixed with bile-spitting lyrics.
The list of bands that ‘Problem Reaction Solution’ recalls is extensive [we won’t even go into it here] so it may come as a surprise that The Junk manages to retain its own identity. This release could easily have fallen by the wayside, hemmed in by a myriad of other albums. But that low-key, DIY approach works in its favour. A lack of polish means this is thankfully as far removed from the jovial elements of the genre as can be. This is a biting number, honest in its bluntness, yet forcibly positive in its bleakness.
Ultimately, ‘Problem Reaction Solution’ plays out like a pertinent snapshot of the UK ska-punk scene. Taking the best bits of other bands and the genre in general, The Junk have compiled a recording that is improbably fresh, forward thinking, and intelligent to the core. It’s about time Punktastic caught this mob on the road.
ALEX HAMBLETON