Set ‘Em Up. Knock ‘Em Down

Upbeat, fast paced, and full of energy, Rancid throw it all out there and let you decided where to run with it. Let the Dominos Fall is their third album with Hellcat Records, and seventh altogether in their legacy. With their song “L.A. River,” these boys give way to a more rockabilly style, something you’d expect to hear at a car show with pin ups and pompadours. It’s not only this song, but the whole album that has taken a small shift in this direction, almost emanating Social Distortion.

With “Dominos Fall,” they bring some swing into the mix, and who can’t dance with some swingin’ punk? There is possibly a hint of some reggae, but not enough to Marley it out. “Last One to Die,” their first single for the album, is one of the few tracks to stay completely true to their punk roots. In an unapologetic way, this song speaks out to all those who lost faith and proves that they could make it. While other artists are selling out, Rancid is “on top of the world” busting out the hits. In “East Bay Night,” love is given to San Francisco, a mecca for punks and their music. As far as anthems are concerned, “Skull City” is representing this album. A dramatic opening leadsto lyrics like “she dances on my table, she dances on a pole.” You know you’re in for a wild ride.

After going through this album song by song, the Dominoes have fallen and what is left but the beauty in rage. Rancid have come back with a thirst for success, and with Let the Dominos Fall, not only do they demand your attention, but blow your mind. Six years is all they needed to knock out your emo hair cut and make your liberty spikes stand on end.