The return of New York Cities hardcore punk legends No Redeeming Social Value finds them continuing their party hard blasts of raw adrenaline on Wasted For Life while also dealing with pain and societal issues. Their first studio full-length in over a decade proves the long-running NYHC crew hasn’t lost a step.
The dynamite title track distills the band’s mantra down to two and a half minutes as the quartet (Dean Miller – vocals, Kent Miller – guitar, John Franko – bass, Glen Lorieo – drums) are inspired lyrically by “Baba O’Reilly”, using ‘wasted’ in its many forms, all while delivering a punk anthem for the ages. “Brew Crew” is classic NRSV getting the groove going while being supported by large backing vocals, before “I’m Gonna Puke” injects country guitar and twang into the gutter punk bender.
While beer, partying and general wilding out are the basis of NRSV, the band tackles a few modern-day topics on “Sociophilia” and “Separation Anxiety”. Both examine the ills of social media and constant screen time/chained to the internet lifestyle, to the detriment of true living. “Shatter Proof” returns to the title tracks multiple lyrical meaning with group vocals around a heavy stomp. On a lighter-hearted note the group pays homage to NYHC lifer “Rat Bones” via his own ditty while opener “Don’t Tell Me” flexes their tough-guy stance around scintillating guitar riffs and thunderous drums.
Just over 21 minutes of kick-ass punk rock, Wasted For Life slams home the truth that NRSV remain vital to the NYHC scene. Two other highlight tracks are the bride’s worst nightmare “Punk Rock Wedding Song” and anthemic closer “NYC NRSV” which shoots for mega sing-alongs when the clubs around the world reopen and pits are filled with sweaty drunken fans.
Hardcore punk, perhaps more than any genre, needs that communal atmosphere to succeed and No Redeeming Social Value has added a slew of tunes to keep the vibe alive with Wasted For Life.
