THREATS
'GOD IS NOT WITH US TODAY'
(DR STRANGE RECORDS)
When lyrics of barbed political cynicism and acerbic opinion are launched with fierce proclamation from a hard edged wall of raw, vicious punk rock guitar, solidly dictated by the strong, confident leadership of capable drumming, it can only be the triumphant war cry of the Threats!
On new album ‘God Is Not With Us Today’ Scottish punk band Threats still sound, quite remarkably, as original and dedicated than ever before. With a debut release over half a century ago, it’s a stunning testament to their musical ability and unwavering belief in themselves that this new record is probably a stronger, more concise collection than anything they’ve done before. Admittedly, they had many long periods of inactivity down the years, but in the last 8 they’ve rarely, if at all, strayed from their path. A commitment that’s surely never been rewarded as gloriously as right now, because Threats have just made the perfect punk album!
Album opener ‘Live Fast, Die By Mistake’ is inspired! It’s got everything you’d expect from classic old school punk. I don’t think there’s anyone doing it better than this right now! Second track ‘Rotten’ is all catchy guitar hooks and precise punchy drumming, with a chorus that truly justifies the fact that front man Jim has a powerful singing voice. Yes, the man can sing, and sing well! There’s no fluke to the first 2 songs because everything continues in the same way. It’s accomplished, unpretentious and honest. From ‘Bastards and Bitches’ through ‘Greedy’ to ‘No Time For It’ there’s nothing you can pick fault with. Then, next up, and my personal stand out track, the brilliant ‘Armchair Anarchist’. The guitar intro that leads into this song is unmatched, absolutely unmatched by anything! It’s simple but it’s never been given a more effective role. Again, it’s classic punk, but so very tight and disciplined. This song is the ‘hairs on the neck’ one! Fourteen songs that deserve their position on any album. For sure there are many people who find nothing worth listening to in punk music…but can they argue with perfection? It’s respect where respect is due.
Listen to the album in it's entirety from the playlist below.
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