I must admit, I haven’t had a lot of time for punk music lately. In the glory days bands like The Clash and The Pogues created tunes that were musically complex and lyrically revolutionary. But somewhere along the way it became all about three-chord wonders who think a few tattoos and piercings make you edgy. If you’re as tired of these homogenised punk outfits as I am, you’re going to love The Go Set.
This Melbourne band serves up classic punk music with a side order of traditional celtic and folk sounds. It’s a unique take, but when you consider that the founding members grew up with Irish/Australian parents it all makes perfect sense. I haven’t heard punk music played with a mandolin or set of bagpipes since The Dropkick Murphys!
Rising is The Go Set’s fourth album in as many years. That it features 10 solid original songs, plus an outstanding cover of Radio Birdman’s “New Race” is a testimony to their prolific talent. The CD sees a return to their punk rock origins and an exploration of some new ground. By dabbling in reggae and ska, The Go Set has created an eclectic collection of tunes.
The original blend of sounds on Rising makes it a lot more accessible than many punk recordings. It also makes The Go Set stand out in a world where I struggle to tell my Simple Plan from my Good Charlotte. If you’ve always dismissed punk music as being too simplistic and discordant, this might just be the album to change your mind.
I have three copies of Rising to give away to my loyal readers.
If you want to win one, just leave a comment to this entry telling me why you want to win! Too easy! Make sure you leave your e-mail address (this won’t be posted publicly) so I can get in touch with you if you win.
Entries close at 5 pm AEST on November 19, and I’ll announce the winners on Thursday November 20.
Image source: The Go Set MySpace