Rancid lives up to the billing of the band that played it. Rancid is flat out, in the history of the genre, one of the best bands to play punk rock. Their early songs are now classics and they are, as a band, easily one of the most recognizable names in punk rock's modern era. In their first recording in over two years, Rancid does not disappoint. The songs are a return to days before ska and reggae influenced them and they are simple, straightforward, powerful and energetic. Regarding lyrics, there is profanity smattered about, and will probably bother those that are put off by such things. However, their lyrics are, as is usual with Rancid, pretty quality. They write about serious issues going on in the world. Whether one agrees with their ideology or not, Rancid makes their opinion known. In addition, Rancid proves that they are relatively culturally adept, which is something that very few punk bands can claim. They speak of everything from Chaucer's Canterbury Tales, to Norse mythology, Christian religious traditions, John Brown's abolitionism, African guerilla warfare, and interestingly enough, horse racing. Regarding the musical aspects, it does not get much better - in any musical genre - than Matt Freeman's bass playing. Vocally, Tim Armstrong's voice seems to get raspier with each successive record they release, but it is of no negative consequence. Lars Frederiksen sounds great, and Freeman's vocal contribution is something that has been missing from the last few albums, but is a welcome addition and change from the usual Armstrong/Frederiksen pace. If there is a great example of a "classic" punk band that is still playing, Rancid is it. Undoubtedly, there will be the same tired responses to "Rancid" that accompany every record they put out. Someone will mention that they rip off The Clash too much. Someone else will say that they are too "mainstream" or that they are sellouts. Someone will say that they aren't talented enough and that it is time for Rancid to hang up their gear. There will be dissenters. This album does not have the "feel good" sound like the radio-hit filled "...And Out Come the Wolves," but "Rancid" certainly stands on its own two feet. It is a great album by a great band.
A+
Other coverage for this album
Decapolis 2001Reviewed by Matt R.Sticking to their more aggressive punk roots, Rancid's fifth record is an album in which the band seems to be operating an out of control bus that instead of slowing down only speeds up. Fast and out of control, the record shows less and less of the reggae influence present on their last two records, opting more for the straight ahead, middle finger in the face approach that fueled their first…Decapolis 2001Reviewed by MarkIt's about time! Rancid has wisely decided to drop all reggae/ska influences from their music and go back to what they do best, full throttle punk rock. Despite what they'd have you believe, this band actually has talent (especially bass player extraordinaire Matt Freeman ) and knows how to write great punk anthems. No, they don't have perfect harmonies (not even close) and they don't sing about…Similar sounding releases
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