The newly reformed One 21's Facedown debut LP begins with "Runaway," which takes off where their Bulletproof LP left off, with quick-step circle beats and such. However, it soon begins one of many divergent chorus breakdowns. Their new guitarist, Adam Garbinski from Squad Five-0, seems to make his influence known throughout the album, bringing in beats, melodies, and riffs more common to a Clash or OpIvy (or even Lynyrd Skynyrd at times) record than the usual One 21 fast-and-furious-and-monotonous fare. Gang vox are used effectively, and the band actually delves into utilizing song progressions at times. Those looking for a sequel to the Bulletproof-era One 21 may be a bit disappointed, but this is still a recognizable One 21 record -- gruff, energetic, cynical, polemic, spiritual, hopeful, etc. -- it's just more musically ambitious, if you will. A standout track is "Building Better Bombs," a protest song done with enough straight-faced naivete to work. "Made in America" is also a nice trad-punk rock piece.
Other coverage for this album
Decapolis 2001Reviewed by Luke HarlowOne-21 hails from Philadelphia, PA and has existed in one form or another since 1994 (see decapolis interview section for more information in this regard). This self-titled album is their second full-length and first with Facedown Records. They are a five-piece punk rock band with an edge informed by an affinity for rock and roll. Simply put, this is One-21's best album to date. It is a fantastic…Similar sounding releases
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