Black Jax
self-titled (Wankin' Stiph)
Reviewed by Alan Wright

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Never heard this 1980s So. Cal band before, so this short CD is a welcome introduction. 12 short tunes of melodic, mid-tempo punk recorded in 1986 and unreleased until now. This is great stuff, big on dual guitar riffs and hyperactive, energy-fueled singing. The liner notes mention, amongst more typical influences like the Buzzcocks, Lurkers and 999, the British obscure punk band Erazerhead. I don't think I've ever really known anyone who knows who they were, let alone listed them as an influence! And what do you know, these guys kinda sound a little like Erazerhead, too! These songs are really fun and catchy, especially "Fooled By A Pretty Face" and "Summer Sun."

© 2004 - Alan Wright