Various

Given the number of bands currently rising in popularity that openly ape the shit out of these gravel-voiced English punks, this couldn’t come at a better time. Being a tribute record, this is unashamedly geared towards those already familiar with Frankie Stubbs’ genre-defining brand of aggressive, melodic punk rock, but even casual fans will find something worthwhile to latch onto in this weighty collection, with eight countries represented over two discs and 39 covers. Australia’s A Death in the Family start things off with a straightforward cover of "Watching You Sleep,” although the addition of a second female vocalist makes for an interestingly textured listen. Most bands take pretty traditional routes with their songs, although the Gunshy’s cover of "In My Life” is pretty insanely leftfield, playing like a string-soaked Tom Waits/Hot Water Music mash-up. Canada is well-represented here, with some of the strongest additions coming from the Sainte Catherines, who contribute "Sour Grapes,” and Sinkin’ Ships, who take a stab at "Peasant in Paradise.” With so many bands taking their turn at Stubbs and company’s legendary material, it’s surprising there aren’t more misses here, but this is an incredibly solid collection of great songs played with sincerity and vitriol.