Album Review: The Living End – Trusting in Rock n Roll

The Living End has returned after an eight-year hiatus with their latest album, “I Only Trust Rock N Roll.” Inspired by the turbulent LA George Floyd riots, the Australian punk trio aimed to recapture the sound and attitude of their debut album. Known for their ’50s-rockabilly-meets-punk-rock’ style, The Living End has solidified their place in the Aussie classic rock scene over the years.

Having seen them perform years ago alongside Jimmy Barnes and The Angels, memories of listening to The Living End in their early days flood back. The band’s goal with this new album is to embody the politically charged punk rock spirit they embraced when they first burst onto the music scene, rebellious and unapologetic. “I Only Trust Rock N Roll” marks their first album in nearly a decade.

The narrative of bands simplifying their music to return to a familiar sound is not a new one in the music industry. As a punk rock aficionado, the consistency of The Living End’s signature style is evident throughout the album. Despite some aging in Chris Cheney’s vocals and the usual drums and double bass sound, the songs carry the same energy and attitude that fans have come to expect.

Listening to the album, it’s easy to imagine many of the tracks seamlessly fitting into the band’s earlier releases without missing a beat. The nostalgia evoked feels reminiscent of their 2000 album, “Roll On,” with familiar melodies and structures that echo their previous work. Engrossed in the music, it’s easy to lose track of time and be transported back to the early 2000s until a mention of Facebook snaps you back to the present.

While The Living End continues to address political and social issues in their lyrics, the impact may not resonate as strongly today as it did 25 years ago. The challenge for punk acts often lies in reconnecting with their original fan base while navigating the reality of a shifting audience that has grown older and embraced new responsibilities. Despite touching on contemporary themes like interest rates in “Strange Place,” the band’s attempts to capture the essence of punk for today’s listeners may fall slightly short.

Notable tracks like “Gypsy Blood” showcase the band’s songwriting skills and musical prowess. While the album exudes a sense of passion and dedication, there is a sense that too much effort has been put into recreating past successes rather than pushing creative boundaries. The final track, “I Only Trust Rock N Roll,” though somewhat dated, encapsulates the band’s core message of finding solace in music amidst chaos.

In conclusion, “I Only Trust Rock N Roll” offers a nostalgic trip for fans who have been following The Living End for over two decades. While some elements may feel outdated and the impact of their political messaging may vary, the album resonates with heart and authenticity. In a world filled with uncertainty, the album serves as a reminder of the enduring power of rock music in challenging times.