Critiquing the latest NOFX release is like asking for yet another interpretation of the bible – the content and conclusions remain the same.
As one might expect, the usual suspects are all present and accounted for on The War on Errorism. You’ll get plenty of heavy rhythms and hooks, gut-busting lyrics (replete with so-true sociopolitical observations), the world’s greatest punk harmonies, a few dissonant chords and the occasional Eric Melvin scream. Oh, and let’s not forget Fat Mike’s vocals – you could put his voice on a slew of holiday standards, and you’d swear they’re NOFX tunes.
So what’s a lowly review whore to do? In situations like this, it’s less about holding a magnifying glass to the music and more about where this album falls in the grand scheme of NOFX’s career. While recent albums have their merit and certainly are worthy selections, The War on Errorism is the first album to come close to the undying appeal of “Punk in Drublic”, “White Trash”, and “Two Heebs and a Bean”. Oh, and in case you do a double take while reading the back cover, yes Fat Mike finally released a NOFX album on his own label. Nothing against Epitaph, but I’m surprised it took this long.
What’s most interesting about this album is the rigid political stance NOFX has taken. They pull no punches when it comes to their feelings on Bush and the War in Iraq and beyond. And they certainly don’t mince words when it comes to how they feel about today’s child-proof, Tipper Gore-approved brand of punk.
“When did punk rock become so safe? When did the scene become a joke? The kids who lived for beer and speed now want their fries and coke.”
— The Separation of Church and Skate (Track One)
