Junkstars - This Means War

Punk rockers still exist? In Sweden? Damn right they do. And Junkstars is leading the charge.Neo-punks Junkstars are dead set on keeping the punk rock flag flying in the 21st century, and it's hard not to root for them when you see this young trio playing every song like it's their last. After touring Europe extensively and releasing two albums, it's time for their latest release This Means War. Whether they're declaring war on us is anybody's guess.

Right off the bat, I have to say the production of This Means War is fantastic. You really get the feeling of standing in somebody's garage as three hyped-up dudes play their asses off. Because let's face it, with punk it's not about playing in odd time signatures, Michael Bay level pyrotechnics, or grandiose concept album material. It's about aggression, energy and attitude. And the Junkstars have it.

With influences from the likes of The Clash, The Ramones, and Rancid, there's no question they've got the right blueprint, and with the world being in the state it's in, there's certainly no shortage of lyric potential. Max Malmquist (guitar, lead vocals) is a quite capable frontman with a strong, gravelly voice and tight riffs, while bassman Tobbe Ljungqvist adds a nice warm bounce to the bottom end to compliment human dynamo Mathias Wanneberg on drums.

The Bottom Line: The spirit of punk rock lives on in Europe through the likes of Junkstars. In a country where cutting-edge metal rules with an iron claw, this trio of grass roots rockers defies convention with a toothy grin. Punk lovers, get those jean jacket vests on cuz it's time for some slam dancin'.

- Genghis remembers when he had this kind of energy (he was 5)...