U.S. Bombs

We Are The Problem

[4/5] Not only are U.S. Bombs–especially frontman Duane Peters, who also heads up the equally rad Duane Peters Gunfight and Die Hunns–keeping “real” punk alive simply by existing; they’re consistently releasing albums that are quality from front to back. And, barring the unsavory “Just Like You,” We Are The Problem might well be the Bombs’ best yet. Following in the footsteps of 2003’s Covert Action, Problem nicely captures the band’s ever-diversifying sound. Of course, most of the track listing consists of the obligatory–and always welcome–early British punk fare (among the best is the feverish “Hammered Again”), but there are also some very eclectic tunes (the light, Spanish-flavored “Guns Of The West,” “Heartbreak Motel,” with its fun ’50s vibe; and the folky group sing-along “Tonight”) that add extra oomph to the Bombs’ signature, often scathingly political punch.
(SAILOR’S GRAVE) Janelle Jones