Generic Insight Radio Volume One

For those not in the know, Generic Insight Radio is a weekly, Internet-based radio show that's led by host Barrie Cohn. And, as you've likely inferred, Generic Insight Radio Volume One is the radio show's first proper release; a compilation of 23 songs from some of New England's brightest, up-and-coming punk rock and hardcore acts.

While the record's selling point just might be the exclusive track from OnGuard, the now-defunct solo project of former Kid Dynamite and None More Black singer Jason Shevchuk, there are 22 other songs on the record, and many of them have that "these-guys-could-get-big" quality. Focusing on the punk rock and melodic hardcore of the Northeast, you can expect a number of songs that have clear Lifetime, Brand New and the Movielife influences, which is nothing to complain about. But, despite the overall high level of quality, I'm going to focus on the compilation's highlights.

The Gaslight Anthem's "I'da Called You Woody, Joe" gets the number three spot, and it's the first gem on Volume One. This gruff, story-telling punk rock band is already making waves, so they're one of the more recognizable acts, but I keep coming back to the gruff singing, soft verses and killer, memorable choruses. The Ghost Armada contributes one of the more unique songs herein, as booming, bass-heavy verses with throaty, shouted vocals transition into catchy, driving choruses. After you hear the song once or twice, you'll be shouting, "Black skies and rolling thunder!" just before the choruses kick in, and chances are it'll be a blast.

The middle section of Volume One is the hot spot, with cool songs from Young Hearts, Captives, In Times of War and Racing Exit 13. Young Hearts blends catchy, energetic pop-punk a la The Movielife with bouncy staccato riffs and shouted vocals; with the right recording budget, these guys could get some attention. Captives' song, "Struggle," reminds me of Where Eagles Dare and Stretch Arm Strong, so I was sold from the beginning, and In Times of War takes that brand of speedy melodic hardcore in a heavier, chunkier direction to forceful results. Racing Exit 13 is fast and catchy, making excitement out of full-bodied, clean singing and energetic tempos. Of course, the OnGuard song is endearing and folk-y, and Shevchuk's voice is always welcome to these ears. Capital's "Wolverines," a song from their 2006 release, Signal Corps., is of course good, but I would've liked to hear something from their newer release, Homefront. Murdock closes the compilation with "By Dawn's Early Light," which is probably the album's heaviest and most dissonant (but not mosh-based) song.

Volume One comprises 23 songs that, in the end, are genuine. There's really no trendy bullshit on the record and, if you prefer your punk rock and hardcore with more melody and texture than mosh and endless hooks, this is a good way to discover some new material.

The Gaslight Anthem - I'da Called You Woody, Joe
The Ghost Armada - The Ghost Armada
Young Hearts - I Went to a Party
Captives - Struggle

All you need to know about ordering the compilation is right here.