If you’re convinced punk has lost its sting, Angry Itch are here to prove otherwise with their raw,
self-titled sophomore album. The record hits like a live wire from the very first track, spilling
over with furious riffs, unapologetically direct lyrics, and a raw, unpolished sound that channels
everything punk should be: loud, messy, and unmistakably relevant.
Every track on this album is steeped in sharp commentary on today’s issues, from political
disillusionment to social friction. The opening track, “The Gammon Riots,” wastes no time
making an impression, setting the tone with a relentless beat and spitfire lyrics. It's blunt, brash,
and unflinchingly honest, letting listeners know right from the start that this album doesn’t have
an ounce of filler.
The band leans heavily into classic punk’s raw grit but manages to keep things feeling current.
There’s a tightness to the instrumentation that contrasts with the deliberate roughness of the
production. Tracks like “Beaten to Death” build on grimy basslines and crashing guitar chords,
creating an immersive wall of sound that feels both oppressive and thrilling. For fans of bands
like Rancid and Pennywise, this record brings a similar intensity, but with a fresh bite all its own.
Angry Itch aren’t interested in expanding punk’s boundaries with experimental twists or
genre-blending — they’re here to distill the pure, no-nonsense essence of the genre and deliver it
at full volume. Songs like “Echo Chamber” are short and punchy, packed with big, brash energy
that’s instantly infectious, while “Too Drunk to Die” draws listeners in with a more chaotic,
slurred edge that captures the band’s love for DIY ethos and reckless abandon.
“It’s Not Right” deserves special mention for the way it digs into modern-day hypocrisies
without feeling preachy. “Nice Guy,” another highlight, is a gut-punch of a song with its fierce
guitar lines and anthemic chant-along chorus that’s bound to make waves at live shows.
Meanwhile, “Happy,” the album’s final track, brings things to a close on a surprisingly lighter
note, slowing down slightly before the inevitable surge of energy kicks back in one last time
Angry Itch is an album that grabs listeners by the collar and doesn’t let go. It’s unrefined and
unrestrained, a refreshing reminder of punk’s enduring power to confront and provoke. For
anyone craving an album that sticks to the genre’s roots without feeling dated, this record is an
absolute must-hear. Angry Itch are more than just angry—they’re intentional, authentic, and
relentless, giving a voice to the collective frustrations of a generation.
Written by Selina Payandee.
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