Angelic Upstarts / Crashed Out – The Dirty Dozen LP (Demons Run Amok Entertainment)

We have some more good old punk rock gems for your listening pleasure. Originally released in 2002 and reissued by Demons Run Amok Entertainment in 2023, this split between iconic Angelic Upstarts and equally good Crashed Out delivers a high-octane dose of punk energy that has left an indelible mark on the punk rock scene.

Angelic Upstarts, hailing from South Shields, England, have long been considered one of the pioneers of Oi! punk. Their side of the split album kicks off with the track “Red Flag,” setting a defiant tone from the get-go. The opening anthemic guitar riffs are like a battle cry, immediately drawing the listener into the Upstarts’ world of working-class rebellion and social commentary. The raspy vocals of Mensi (RIP) deliver the band’s poignant lyrics with conviction, praising their leftist beliefs and keeping the banner of the working class up high. The song’s anthemic chorus is impossible not to shout along with, creating an immediate sense of camaraderie between the band and the listener. “Take Me To Cuba” is another standout track, showcasing their melodic sensibility. It’s a song that encapsulates the band’s ability to blend punk aggression with catchy hooks. The juxtaposition of gritty, street-level lyrics with infectious melodies is a testament to their songwriting prowess. “Take Me To Cuba” is a danceable number that resembles some of their greatest hits, but with a slightly modern touch added to it. Of course, the remainder of their side is equally good, and tracks like “Killing Machine,” “King Of The Rats,” and “Not Like I Sad In The Song Frank” are also shining examples of their brilliance.

As we transition to Crashed Out’s side, the pace and intensity only increase. The band’s sound is rooted in the street punk and Oi! traditions, but with a ferocious energy that’s uniquely their own. “Get A Life” opens their side with a roaring blitz of power chords and pounding drums. Crashed Out’s vocalist, Chris Wright delivers his lyrics with a snarling punk rock attitude. The chorus is an infectious call to action, urging you to grab a drink and join the rowdy celebration. One of the standout moments on Crashed Out’s side is “Just Another Gig.” With its driving rhythm and anthemic chorus, the song pays homage to live shows, rock ‘n’ roll, and sweating with the crowd in the club. “Kicking Up The Storm” is another noteworthy track, showcasing their ability to inject melody into their aggressive sound. The song’s chorus is catchy and memorable, making it an instant sing-along anthem. Crashed Out demonstrates their musicianship with tight, powerful instrumentation throughout, adding depth to their raw and unapologetic punk sound.

What makes “The Dirty Dozen” LP truly special is the synergy between Angelic Upstarts and Crashed Out. While both bands have their own distinctive styles, there’s an undeniable connection between them, and the album flows seamlessly from one side to the other. This cohesion exemplifies the careful curation of the tracks and the shared spirit of rebellion that unites these two bands. “The Dirty Dozen” retains a raw and authentic punk sound that stays true to the genre’s roots. The guitars have a gritty edge, the drums are relentless, and the vocals are passionate and unrefined. This unpolished quality only adds to the album’s authenticity, capturing the essence of DIY punk rock.

This split release is a testament to punk rock’s enduring power and ability to channel social commentary and raw energy into musical expression. Angelic Upstarts and Crashed Out deliver an explosive sonic collision, showcasing their distinct styles while sharing a common commitment to rebellion, unity, and the working-class spirit. This album is a must-listen for punk rock enthusiasts and serves as a reminder of the genre’s timeless appeal and capacity to ignite a fire in the hearts of listeners. Demons Run Amok Entertainment made a wise move by reissuing this punk rock gem because it sounds and looks better than ever. You can grab this version with a slightly improved cover art on standard black vinyl, black with white splatter, or red with white splatter. Head to their web store and grab it as soon as possible.