Living End

When this Aussie trio debuted a couple of years ago, most punk bands that signed to major labels were either being dropped or breaking up. But what may have been folly for others worked in their favour. Their second release has more of a rock sound to it, with plenty of galloping guitar parts but the sing-along element pervades. The songs stick in your head, bolstered by catchy choruses, especially on "Riot On Broadway" and the pint-raising anthem "Uncle Harry." On "Astoria Paranoia," they borrow a riff from the Supremes' "You Keep Me Hanging On" and "Silent Victory" sounds like a tribute to fellow Aussies AC/DC. Also included is a live version of "Prisoner Of Society," from their 1998 debut.