Tim Armstrong’s “A Poet’s Life”

Feel Good Album of the Summer. RIP in Joe Strummer, but rest knowing someone’s carrying the psuedo-Trenchtown torch.
I’ll openly confess my knowledge of this genre is limited (though I did see Armstrong’s Rancid at Lollapalooza ‘96) but I know a good record when I hear it.
I have been listening to “Poet’s Life” the past two days and my fairweather interest in ska/rude boy/reggae rock is piqued here. You’ve probably heard “Into Action”, a Specials-sounding call to arms as it has been in regular rotation on KEXP. “Inner City Violence” is a standout here, as well. Immediately recalls plenty of Clash tunes, especially the faster-paced “Guns of Brixton” and “Know Your Rights.” The production quality is good and the variety of the songs are varied in tempo and tone, keeping it fresh for that backyard BBQ with the neighbors.
Give it a spin.

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