Reno Divorce

Tears Before Breakfast

Written by: PP on 09/10/2009 17:25:02

Denver, Colorado based punk rockers Reno Divorce have been around since 1996, and have put out three albums before their I Scream Records debut "Tears Before Breakfast", their first new record in over 5 years. Apparently they've built a cult following in the states, but I'll be the first to admit that I've never heard of these guys even by name despite following the US scene closely, but that's all the more reason to check out the new album, especially because it is, according to the promo info, "one of the best punk rock records of the last decade". Umm yeah....I don't know about. Anyone with ears can admit it's good, but to say it'd surpass any of my own candidates for the best 30 punk and hardcore albums this decade is a huge overstatement.

So what do these guy sound like? Well, they sure have a fetish for anything old school punk rock, meaning mostly medium tempo, Social D / Agent Orange inspired, riff-driven American rock that leans heavily on the roots of the punk genre. Their vocalist sounds almost identical to renowned Social D singer Mike Ness, though particularly on "How Long's It Been" which sounds like it was lifted directly off "Prison Bound" or "Mommy's Little Monster" by said band. It's therefore not surprisingly one of the best songs on the record, alongside "All Show, No Go!" which sports a similar feel, though that one is somewhat faster in tempo and thus features a more modern sound. And before you run out to the streets screaming COPYCATS COPYCATS COPYCATS in the best primary school manner, I should really add that Reno Divorce play their style convincingly enough for the obvious similarities to not bother the listener too much. It helps having big sing alongs like "True Love" as well.

But despite a good number of solid old school punk songs, "Tears Before Breakfast" is still miles away from being included in the legion of amazing punk rock albums this decade. I wouldn't even say it can compete with the best punk releases this year, but hey, that's also a populated playing field so that's okay. All you really need to know about this record is that if you like Social D, Agent Orange, The Gaslight Anthem and other bands that fit the 'true American rock/punk' description, then you'll be taking a liking to this one as well.

7

Download: How Long's It Been, All Show No Go!
For the fans of: Social Distortion, Agent Orange, The Stray Cats
Listen: Myspace

Release date 12.10.2009
I Scream Records

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