VA – Wolverine Records: Spreading The Rock‘n‘Roll Virus Since 1992 CD (Wolverine Records)

Wolverine Records has long been a stalwart in the punk, rockabilly, and psychobilly music scenes, known for its commitment to showcasing high-energy, rebellious music that defies convention. Their latest compilation, Spreading The Rock‘n‘Roll Virus Since 1992, continues this tradition with an eclectic mix of bands and tracks that celebrate the raw, unfiltered spirit of rock’n’roll. This review will delve into each track, highlighting the unique qualities and contributions of the artists involved.

Reno Divorce kicks off this compilation with “Wyoming Girl,” a track that epitomizes the band’s melodic punk style. The song features gritty guitar riffs and heartfelt lyrics, painting a vivid picture of longing and heartache. The catchy chorus and driving rhythm make it an instant standout, setting the bar high for the rest of the compilation. The Hellbound Hitmen follow with “Wasted Youth Crew,” a raw and aggressive anthem originally written and performed by Blood For Blood, that channels the frustration and rebellion of youth. The relentless pace and powerful vocals capture the essence of classic hardcore punk, with a modern twist that keeps it fresh and relevant. This track is a rallying cry for anyone disillusioned with the status quo. Left Hand Black’s “Let’s Scare Jessica To Death” adds a dark, horror-punk flavor to the mix. The eerie melodies and macabre lyrics create a chilling atmosphere, perfectly complemented by the band’s tight instrumentation. This track stands out for its ability to blend spooky themes with high-energy punk rock, appealing to fans of both genres.

Injecting a dose of Celtic punk, The Feelgood McLouds deliver “Mad O’Riley,” a raucous, foot-stomping track that’s impossible to ignore. The energetic fiddle and driving beat create a festive atmosphere, while the lyrics tell a tale of mischief and mayhem. This song is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, perfect for getting listeners on their feet. “Hookline” by The Bloodstrings is a masterclass in modern psychobilly. The band’s tight musicianship and charismatic vocals make this track a standout of this compilation. The powerful bass lines and catchy hooks are instantly memorable, showcasing The Bloodstrings’ ability to blend rockabilly roots with a punk edge. O’Henry’s “Yeah” is a punchy track that packs a lot of attitude into its brief runtime. The detailed approach and raw sound are reminiscent of early punk recordings, with a straightforward, no-nonsense delivery that makes it incredibly effective. The Hyperjax bring a rockabilly swagger with “Bringing The Bad Back Home.” The driving bass and twangy guitars are complemented by rebellious lyrics, creating a quintessential punk’n’roll track. The infectious energy and catchy chorus make this song a highlight, perfect for fans of the genre.

“Green Glowing Skulls” by Dead United is another highlight, blending elements of horror punk and psychobilly. The macabre lyrics and frenetic pace make this a memorable addition to the compilation. The haunting vocals and eerie atmosphere add a unique twist to the album, making it a must-listen for fans of spooky, high-energy music. True to its title, “Hi-Octane Rock ‘N’ Roll” by The Silver Shine is a high-energy track that doesn’t let up. The fast-paced rhythm and electrifying guitar solos exemplify the band’s rock’n’roll catchiness. This track is an adrenaline-fueled ride from start to finish, showcasing The Silver Shine’s ability to deliver powerful, engaging music. The Devil ‘n’ Us continues at the same pace with “Graveyard Of My Dreams,” a brooding track with a melancholic edge. The somber lyrics and atmospheric instrumentation provide a nice contrast to the other upbeat tracks. This song adds depth and variety to the compilation, highlighting the band’s versatility and emotional range. “Going Nowhere” by Angry Youth Elite is a punk anthem for the disaffected. The raw vocals and aggressive guitar work make this a track that resonates with the frustrations of modern life. The powerful lyrics and driving beat create a sense of urgency, making this song stand out on this compilation.

Night Nurse’s “Nurse U2 Death” is a fast and furious punk track with a sense of urgency. The relentless tempo and melodic vocals capture everything this band is about. This track is a perfect example of raw, unfiltered, but melodic punk rock, making it a must-listen for die-hard fans. Jamie Clarke’s Perfect offers a more folk-punk vibe with “Jackson Town.” The storytelling lyrics and acoustic elements provide a refreshing change of pace. The track’s narrative style and melodic instrumentation create a compelling listening experience, showcasing the band’s ability to blend genres seamlessly. “Sold My Soul” by Johnny Rocket is a classic rockabilly track with a modern twist. The infectious rhythm and catchy hooks make it a standout. The track’s blend of vintage and contemporary elements creates a unique sound that will appeal to a wide range of listeners. Malasañers’ “Long Live The Glory” is a celebratory track that blends punk and folk influences. The anthemic chorus and uplifting message make it a highlight of the compilation. The band’s ability to create a sense of community and camaraderie through their music is evident in this track, making it a powerful addition to the album.

“Have A Ball” by The Cable Bugs is a fun, upbeat track with a rock’n’roll heart. The playful lyrics and bouncy rhythm are guaranteed to put a smile on your face. This track’s lighthearted energy and catchy melody make it another standout on the album, providing a joyful listening experience. Los Cinco Felices Cuatro brings heavy street punk music with “Wake Up.” The energetic performance and vibrant instrumentation make this a unique addition to this comprehensive collection. The powerful vocals, heavily distorted vocals, and energetic drumming create a dynamic and engaging sound, showcasing the band’s versatility and creativity. “Baby Borderline” by Shout-outs! is a classic punk track with a catchy chorus. The high-energy performance and rebellious spirit make it a fitting addition to the compilation. This track captures the essence of punk rock, with its raw vocals and driving instrumentation. Mutant Reavers’ “Primal Rage” is a hard-hitting track with a sense of urgency. The aggressive vocals and pounding rhythm section capture the raw power of punk. This track’s intense energy and powerful delivery make it a memorable addition to the album, perfect for fans of hardcore punk.

“Hopfen Und Malz” by Düsselboiz is a fun, beer-soaked track that pays homage to the band’s German roots. The catchy chorus and party atmosphere make it a standout. This track’s playful lyrics and festive energy create a sense of celebration, making it a perfect addition to any punk rock party playlist. Rather Raccoon’s “Beyond Command” is a high-energy track with a powerful message. The driving guitars and passionate vocals make it a memorable addition to this compilation. The anthemic quality and compelling lyrics create a sense of empowerment and urgency, making it another standout on the compilation. The Mahones deliver a powerful performance with “Last One To Die.” The anthemic chorus and rousing instrumentation make it a fitting conclusion. This track’s blend of punk and folk elements creates a dynamic and engaging sound, showcasing the band’s ability to create powerful, emotionally resonant music. Closing out the album, Crispy Jones’ “Death At Primetime” is a folk-punk song with memorable chord progressions and melody. The hypnotic atmosphere and compelling lyrics leave a lasting impression. This track’s moody, introspective quality provides a fitting end to the compilation, highlighting the band’s ability to create emotionally charged music.

Spreading The Rock‘n‘Roll Virus Since 1992 exemplifies Wolverine Records’ enduring legacy in the punk and rockabilly scenes. The diverse array of tracks and talented artists featured on this compilation make it a must-listen for any rock’n’roll fan. Whether you’re a long-time follower of the label or a newcomer to their roster, this album offers a thrilling ride through the rebellious spirit of rock’n’roll. Each track brings something unique to the table, showcasing the variety and richness of the genres represented. From the raw aggression of punk to the infectious energy of rockabilly and the haunting melodies of horror punk, this compilation has something for everyone. Wolverine Records has once again proven their ability to curate a collection of music that not only entertains but also captures the essence of what makes punk rock and rock’n’roll so enduring and powerful.