If you're starved for a good punk album, Avail's new release on Lookout records is definitely one to watch. Over the James , due out this month, features 14 hard-hitting tracks that combine powerful, grinding melodies with tough guitar and drum riffs. With six albums to date, Avail is no stranger to the music scene. But Over the James takes a new turn for the band, shifting from their previously tight, angst-ridden songs to explore music in more depth, without sacrificing the raw energy that makes punk music distinctive. Tim Barry's solid voice carries terse, poignant lyrics over tight guitar and drums.
Every song is as good as the next, proving to be a solid investment for punk fans everywhere.
Avail's songs are consistent but not repetitive, and similar in sound without being boring. Over the James certainly has my vote, but the disc quality is less than perfect. Fairly distorted, Over the James has a garage-days feel to it, but is a good buy regardless. So if you're looking for a new punk album, check out Over the James. You'll have 14 songs that get better every time you hear them.