The Code

Alert Aware Involved (A-F)
by Ewan Wadharmi

There are two types of punks in this world: Those who like rockabilly, and those who prefer ska. Me, I’m a rockabilly man, my own self. The Code produce venomous ska-punk infused with metal and a little low-cal SoCal. That’s the harmony minus the sugar. So don’t take it lightly when I proclaim this to be the best thing I’ve heard this year. This is some fierce shit that lazy folk are going to compare to Op Ivy and Rancid. Those are respectable peers, but these youths deserve their own. Not only do they know their way around the equipment, they’ve got the dynamics, insane velocity, and worthwhile lyrics working for them. Marc Defiant has a trademark foaming-mouthed voice and a nimble tongue. Poison Jay and Fat Jon are fluent in several guitar styles, delivering melody with mind-boggling speed. Daring choices in time changes keep the energy fresh, although “Seal of Approval” stumbles on some of the awkward rhythms. The only other complaint is an occasional stutter on the double-bass drum. From the extended metal intro of “Our Safety” to the Eastern ramblings of “John Doe,” the airspace is chock full of interesting assaults from every angle. My copy seems to be defective, I can’t get the sumbitch out of the player.
(PO Box 71266 Pittsburgh, PA 15213)