Two piece noisemakers Burnt Cross deliver fourteen tracks of crusty, angry punk rock with each and every track having a purpose and a message; you won't find tracks about wishy washy nothingness, 'Mankind's Obituary' is straight to the face from the guts. 

Issues that shouldn't be treated lightly get a seeing to, from the police and politicians to racism and animal rights. If you were ever into a bit of Conflict, Crass and the other Class War bands then this is something you'll be all over like a rash. Whilst the duo use a drum machine this is hardcore punk to the core and only on occasions do the rigid drums get on your nerves (usually on the rapid rolls). 
 
It's heavy duty listening but I'm drawn to the message and find myself nodding with approval at its content. To escape from my escapism this collection of songs is well thought out and well delivered; 'Ian Tomlinson' gets your blood boiling as does a lot of the content but, with most songs checking in under two minutes, it's to the point and on the money.
 
More a home project rather than a gigging live act Paul and Rob Marriott certainly know what they're doing. Definitely flying the (black) flag for the true underground punk scene this is full of nihilism, anger and unease about how and who run our countries. Regardless of any words I can put here bands like Burnt Cross will always be out there poking the status quo and I salute them and their album: great stuff and a welcome change.

Check out 'Too Many Graves' and 'They Kill Dogs' and tell me you didn't enjoy or think about the messages. DIY and non profit - much kudos from me.

www.myspace.com/creamcropzinelabel