In recent years, things have quieted down a bit for the icons of California punk rock, yes, for the band that basically created this style. We are talking about NOFX.
The calm is over!
There is a split release titled “West Coast vs. Wessex” with Frank Turner.
As is often the case, one band covers the songs of the other, in this case, the musician Frank Turner, and Turner does the same.
The result is ten songs, five from NOFX and five from Frank Turner.
NOFX kicks things off with their five interpretations of Frank Turner’s songs.
Even the first seconds of the first track “Substitute” make it clear who is making music here. Fat Mike's voice is exceptional and always recognizable. It’s the same here. But it’s not just Fat Mike's voice; it’s the whole sound. NOFX comes across as if they haven’t aged a bit. NOFX as you know them!
The arrangements are not just beautiful California-style punk rock. The band has also ventured into other spheres; for example, “Thatcher fucked the kids” is a mid-tempo number with keyboard support. What can I say? The band can do that too; they can do just about anything! Of course, there are also the almost classic punk rock tracks. The kind of songs that make us love the band so much.
What does Frank Turner do with the NOFX songs?
He has a somewhat different approach, after all, he makes somewhat different music.
However, this doesn’t have to be a disadvantage, as you can hear right from the first song “Scavenger Type.” This sounds nothing like what you would expect from Frank Turner. The song takes on a pop-punk vibe and actually connects to the five songs from NOFX. It serves as a bridge or a kind of transition song, at least when you listen to the following song “Bob.” That’s more in line with what you would expect from Frank Turner. The expectations are met. With guitar, vocals, harmonica, and a bit of piano, a lively yet melancholic punk rock song gets a new outfit. A ballad, perfectly fitting to the lyrics. This can truly be called great art. Even an old punk rock bard like me appreciates it.
“Eat the Meek” is then a mid-tempo electropop number. You have to like it; it’s definitely something new and can be done.
Then comes something more expected from Mr. Turner, though not bad and again very pleasing, so definitely listenable and likable.
The last song “Falling in Love” almost turns into a mystical, atmospheric piece that is also somewhat special. In this number, Frank Turner’s charismatic voice comes to the fore and has space to unfold, which benefits the composition.
Overall, I must say that I prefer NOFX's interpretations, probably also because I love this sound so much.
FRANK TURNER has infused more creativity and ideas into his five cover songs, which may not appeal to everyone, but showcase his class.
In conclusion, I think I can say: interesting stuff.
Fans of NOFX as well as FRANK TURNER should definitely give this record a listen, as it is certainly interesting and that is worth a lot.
