Punkrockers Anti-Flag recently released their new epos The Terror State. Holding the banner high for justice and democracy, this fourpiece from Pittsburgh, kicks republican shin with 13 angry tracks. Not that their sound is aggressive. On the contrary, it’s punkrock the way it should be played, but the load of the lyrics weighs heavy and offers you listeners something to think about. Although I fear they are preaching to the choir.

Anti-Flag do not spit their anger and frustration out with blind fury and shallow phrases. Their arguments are backed with sources, printed in the booklet. Main target of their offence is obviously George W. B. Without being too political I should stress that punkrock fans from other countries than the US should also listen to The Terror State.

It ensures you that there is another way of thinking in the US than the one portrayed so extensively in the media. Anti-Flag are the best example.

Check out songs like “Trenchcoat” and “Wake Up!” plus the Woodie Guthrie poem “Post-War Breakout” they have put to music. Musically their melodic anthems do a premium job, although towards the end of the album the quality so effective in the first half, gives way. A problem more albums today seem to suffer from. To wrap it all up: This is not punkrock about spots and pimples, teenage relationships or baggy pants. This is not shopping mall punkrock. This is food for thought…take it or leave it.