Gimp Fist hit back with a statement release in the form of a twelve-track album, 'Take the Power Back' and, as veteran punters will know, these Dundee lads have been treading the boards in the UK's street punk scene since time immemorial and that pedigree really shines through here. Gimp Fist still carry their distinctive working-class fury, mixed with their renowned rhythmic and sometimes infectious foot-stomping verve, when the band veers into their signature reggae and ska influences. And as the title suggests, this one hits hard.
From start to finish 'Take the Power Back' just bulldozes all before it; kicking off in a hail of furious guitars, pounding drums and a general aural assault that sets the tone of confrontational defiance straight off. Johnny's rough but tuneful vocals cut through the cacophony with lyrics that decry authority, conformity and the never-ending cycle of control from above, all produced immaculately.
But this is not a collection of individual songs to shout to; instead it hangs together cohesively to form an onslaught that keeps on driving forward, with the melodic, gang vocals in the choruses crying out to be chanted along by punters everywhere. With themes of resilience, rebellion and solidarity woven throughout its twelve cuts of solid rock music Gimp Fist's most recent outing shows off some two decades worth of experience with a whole heap of current disillusionment!
The musicianship on offer is superb all round: a cohesive wall of sound that's not just full-on aggression; it's played with pinpoint precision – a truly impressive feat from this power trio, quite the feat of musical balance when all is said and done, without being over-polished. In fact even in its more aggressive moments, the songs have a real sing-along feel that begs to be played again and again, and again! 'Take the Power Back' reminds us all what street punk can do!
In a weakened political landscape it's a much-needed dose of raw passion, uncompromised spirit and some great music.
A definite to-listen.
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