The opening chords of “Boyfriend” signal the intentions of Dead Vicious straight off the bat. “I wanna kill your boyfriend,” goes the opening line from vocalist/guitarist Ken Vicious, adding a 70s UK sneer over the top of Ramones-esque power chord riffing. This is punk rock, circa 1977 – no bullshit, no mucking about.
Every Home Should Have One is an EP of five songs from the Wellington four-piece, with lyrical subject matter focussing primarily on the political, with anti-establishment sentiment a prominent theme throughout, that extends to the CD liner photos as well. Dead Vicious don’t worry about glossy production or tight playing or even tuneful vocals – this is about strong songs with shout-along choruses and driving rhythms.
“Ya Basta” and “Capitalist Cheerleaders” showcase memorable choruses, and the band show a knowing ability to pull out catchy vocal hooks. The lyrics are also sly in places, such as on “Smash The State” where Dead Vicious dig at those who join causes for reasons of trendiness rather than any true belief. “Let’s settle down and smash the state,” sings Ken Vicious on the final chorus, “Let’s have kids who smash the state”.
The sound is certainly raw, and a long, long way from the production values of bigger budget releases. Some ears may find the lack of polish and technical ability disconcerting, but this is a fine EP of open-hearted, no frills, honest punk, the way it should be.
Matt, Punkas.com
| Released | 2003, September 30 |
| Formats | CD/ DL |
| Recorded | The Factory/ Balalaika Bill’s |
| Producer | |
| Engineer | |
| Cover art | Bill Vicious |
Credits
- Bill Vicious (guitar, vocals)
- Grant Vicious (bass, vocals)
- Ken Vicious (guitar, vocals)
- Stephen Vicious (drums)
