Flash Album Review: The Punk Rock Socks

Well, maybe it's something of the old punk in me, but you really have to check out this awesome band The Punk Rock Socks. They really are as Eddie Cochran might say 'something else'. Their debut album, Punk Rock Socks, features seventeen original songs, delivered with the type of raw energy that made the likes of the Clash famous. The album held my attention from start to finish, with its raw power and fabulous melodic content. 

The opening track in true Napalm Death fashion lasts only eight seconds, and really grabs the listener by the throat. It also provides an opportunity for the band to introduce themselves, and succinctly announce their lyrical intent, that they 'love to learn'.

They also love to teach, and the album features a number of educational tracks including "Counting Song", "ABC Song", and even a song to help you with your "2 Times Table". The lyrics throughout the album guide and instruct growing minds in a number of important areas, whether this involves "Crossing the Street", using "Sunscreen" or simply the importance of using your "Manners".

Other standout tracks include the compelling "Eat Your Greens", the catchy "Brush Your Teeth", and the anthemic "Buckle Up". The band deliver their message with relentless energy, and have a sharpness of focus second to none. Even "Back to School" is sung with no shortage of optimism, because 'school is cool', and I get to 'see my friends'.

As you can imagine with a name like The Punk Rock Socks there is no shortage of humour here, after all how often do you get to see three socks puppets jumping around, electric guitar in hand, highlighting the importance of using your "Imagination". This song sounds like it has been inspired by the Pistols' "God Save the Queen", with its Steve Jones inspired guitar rhythm, and its pulsating rhythm section.

Fortunately the band have also filmed a video for "Imagination" on YouTube, where our very own hero the sock puppet pontificates on the numerous things you can do with a cardboard box. There is no doubt some wisdom in this, after all how many times, have you purchased a present for a toddler only to discover them ultimately discarding the present and playing with the box? 

My absolute favourite track on the album is "Friends", which features a brief acoustic intro before reverting to type, and unleashing their own particular brand of musical mayhem. With perhaps a slight Ian Dury influence on the vocal delivery, the lyrics focus on the importance of loyalty and unconditional love. The song also boasts a great tune, which stands out despite the layers of guitars blasting out of the speakers. 

All in all, an intriguing selection of songs, where distorted guitars, infectious lyrics and dancing puppets are the order of the day.  This is a band who know how to present music that will have everyone smiling. Their songs are both educational and easy to dance to, and perhaps most importantly remind us all to not to take life too seriously. Well done guys, I take my hat off to you.

The Punk Rock Socks - anarchy in the wardrobe.