If you consider that the original spawn of Punk music was helped along from a couple of crazy Brits--Sex Pistols and The Clash--then it’s not too much of a stretch to be hearing that ever-so-popular sound comes waving across the waters once again.

This time that sound is coming out of the mouths of a band called IgnitionUK. The quartet has literally just stepped out on the music scene with their debut EP Napalm Jag, which was released a mere 6 months ago. With this CD you get a four song journey through a genre of music that’s easily 40 years old.

“Sonic Burn” is just that, an annihilating burst of guitar energy that leaves you, one skin layer less. If you’re looking for a song to help you get that pent up anger out in a gut wrenching lyrical kind of way, this is the song for you. “Thought Crimes” is the most punk sounding song of them all. And it’s really because of its simplicity. The guitar gets stuck on the same riff, but manages to pull it off seamlessly throughout the song. And bass just adds a layer of its own riff to the sequence, adding depth, but keeping it purely punk. “Escape Route” to me is the The Clash reincarnate. There’s an underlying melody that gives it an excuse to do a little dancing. And the lyrics were obviously thought of a little bit more for this one, as you’re able to hear and absorb them into your brain easier. “Burn Like A Star” finishes it all off with a reggae twist. The token reggae guitar sound, gentle and repetitive strumming, carries the entire song. While the vocals go a bit lighter and almost whisper along with the melody. Midway through is a guitar solo that could slip itself into a scene from Kill Bill or some other Quentin Tarantino creation.

I hope that this band is able to make it big, because bringing out a new UK punk scene would benefit everyone.

Review by: Rachel Fredrickson

Additional links:
- IgnitionUK on Myspace