Reviewed by Ian Webber

Originally released in 1999, this 12-track offering has recently become available once again for fans of a more relaxed approach to punk music. Refusing to stick to a single style, Ventura County's Zippy Josh and his friends are difficult to pigeon hole. As an acoustic album there are definitely the edgy elements of punk, but also pop and praise and worship. This individual sound has been described by some as "the Sex Pistols meet Bob Dylan." Opening with "Soup Of The Day" a driving strum takes the lead over a bouncing bass line. The stripped back feel has not dated in 18 years and is refreshing in its unpretentious and creative feel. Skiffle-like rhythms are maintained in the title track which tells the story of a new convert and will get your feet tapping. Zippy Josh's vocals are delivered with punk phrasing but without an angry edge, sitting nicely on the laid back vibe. I particularly enjoyed "Fire In The Sky" that has some folk guitar riffs that paint a more melodic picture and offers changes in pace and mood. Throughout, the recording is bright with an almost live clarity. I did, however, find that as the album progressed there were one too many songs that sounded similar and consequently failed to hold my attention.

The opinions expressed in this article are not necessarily those held by Cross Rhythms. Any expressed views were accurate at the time of publishing but may or may not reflect the views of the individuals concerned at a later date.

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