Pirates Press Records – 02 Feb 2024
The Complicators' long awaited full length is simply killer.
Those lucky enough to have heard the first couple of EPs by The Complicators were eagerly awaiting this full length, even if it took quite a bit longer than anticipated. The Complicators' self-titled three song debut 7″ arrived in 2017, and their split with Empire Down came the following year. (One of their two songs on that split, “Too Old”, is an epic geezer punk anthem.) After the now typical Covid delays, The Complicators' self-titled LP is here.
The Complicators are made up of a bunch of Bay Area punk veterans. You might not recognize the individual names, but you may have heard The Lucky Stiffs or Street Justice. The Complicators' sound is an aggressive mix of street punk and hardcore. It's angry and desperate, but despair always gives way to hope. The dozen songs are more personal than political, and somehow manage to be both hostile and positive.
Opener “Pressure” is simply about how difficult it can be just to survive from day to day. “K.Y.H.U.” has a similar sentiment within the context of boxing. “Keep your hands up/You've still got a few rounds to go.” “Blink of an Eye” talks about living in and enjoying the moment. “Another Round” turns a classic street punk trope on its head, and approaches things from the perspective of the bartender.
“Working Man” is the obligatory but heartfelt tribute to the band's blue collar roots. “86ed” again explores the dark side of drinking, something often celebrated by this type of band. “American Shame” finally gets political, challenging those who vilify immigrants. “I Remember” recalls better days, while hardcore tinged closer “Street Diamonds” acknowledges the inevitable broken car windows you get living in the city.
The Complicators might not have invented this hard edged punk sound, but they sure are good at it. Harsh, full throated vocals over heavily distorted guitars and a relentlessly driving rhythm section is a winning formula.
For vinyl fiends: Classic black and white punk motif on this one, with b/w lyric insert. Small run on the first press with 350 on black and 250 on black with white splatter.
The Complicators Bandcamp (digital DL, vinyl)
The Complicators Spotify
Pirates Press Records store (vinyl)
Part-time punk writer, suburban dad and angry old man. Follow my adventures on the Punk Till I Die podcast!