Nobody's Heroes
This inspired and underrated Northern Ireland punk band never sounded better. OnNobody's Heroes, the group began to forge a way out of the genre's dead-end street with articulate lyrics, refined playing, and a slight softening of vocalist Jake Burns's barking delivery. Fortunately, these improvements did nothing to blunt the group's impact or visceral appeal. They sound defiant as ever as they reflect the tough urban realities of their Belfast home. Highlights include the title track, "I Don't Like You," and "Wait and See," a collective "up yours" directed at the establishment and other nefarious types. Also included is a great, hopped-up version of the Specials' "It Doesn't Make It Alright."--Mike Corrigan