War on Errorism

Incredibly, a full 20 years after their formation, NOFX are still possessed by the spirit of punky rebellion. And very proud of it they are, too. Several of the tracks on War on Errorism name-check the great punk bands of the past, and NOFX are happy to remain true to their codes of ethics. This album, it is made very clear, is real punk, not like the new bratty variety, obsessed with guzzling beer and ogling women. Indeed, so keen are NOFX (the seminal punk comedians) to distance themselves from today's mindless frat-punk that they've made serious efforts to embrace politics in an adult fashion. George Bush is attacked with vigour, as are imperialists, warmongers and greedy corporate directors, while listeners are urged to fight the apathy that keeps the masses in thrall to corrupt government and business. Their Web site, punkvoter.com, is proof positive that their words are not empty. But no NOFX album could stay serious for long. Their heady mix of punk, pop and ska demands a light-hearted approach and "She's Nubs", the tale of a limb-less punk girl, and "Mattersville", about a community of pensionable punks, are blasts of fun. Musical and world events have forced NOFX to mature, and they're all the better for it. --Dominic Wills

Label: Unknown
Studio: Fat Wreck
Released: 2003-05-05
Format: Audio CD